I have been visiting my good friend Norman for about two years now. Our Wednesday nights have consisted of Bingo, Wheel of Fortune, and talks of life (from all angles might I add). Visiting Norman is always a highlight of my week, and he seems to enjoy telling residents that I am "his girl". He has really been a second grandparent to me these past couple of years. It is strange to think that 3 years ago we knew nothing about each other. Now I know a 75-year-old, life-loving man who enjoys helping out, giving advice (and often strong opinions), takes life as it is, and will forever be disappointed that "As the World Turns" went off the air.
Since I have spent some time at the nursing home, I have gotten to know a handful of other residents fairly well. Several of them are unhappy with their situations and many struggle with Alzheimer's. However, residents are always pleased to have students from IWU visit them, so when the Senior Prom was coming up, all of them wanted to attend.
The dining hall was decorated with black and white streamers, balloons, and handcrafted centerpieces. There was an overall gleeful ambiance that radiated through the room. Residents sipped on punch and enjoyed a variety of refreshments, while IWU students tried their best to find themselves dancing partners.
Before I knew it, residents were swaying back and forth to Frank Sinatra and some of them were on their feet dancing with students. It was one of the most remarkable sights when I saw Miss B out of her wheelchair....dancing. I have never seen Miss B too happy; she is always roaming the halls looking for someone to talk to. I have never seen her out of her wheelchair..... but now I watched her dance, wearing a subtle smile I never want to forget.
The night finished with the crowning of the Prom Queen and King. One of my favorite little ladies, Mary Lou Clark received the Queen's crown. She wore it so proudly, but yet so humbly.
I am starting an Adopt-A-Grandparent program for IWU students to reach out to this generation of elderly people. This is one project I want to see to completion because nights like this show the happiness that can only come from a selfless love.
