A Family’s Story of Love 
by Barb Quaintance
“It’s a story of love.” That’s how Emad Garibovic describes his family’s experience with Misericordia. And such a beautiful story it is.
Emad came to the United States from Bosnia. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Rogers Park, just a few blocks from Misericordia. He often came to campus to think and reflect—and he took walks there with his daughters, Dzenana and Hana. Emad believes many things led him to Misericordia. His neighbor, Marge Murphy, was a longtime Misericordia employee and encouraged him to apply for a job there. A few years later, Emad began working at Misericordia and, 23 years later, is the Director of Housekeeping & Laundry.
Emad and his wife, Senita, welcomed their second daughter, Hana, twenty-seven years ago. At eighteen months old, Hana was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and developmental delays. Emad and Senita did everything they could to care for Hana and meet all her needs. That included Hana attending the Northside Learning Center and, for many years, the day program at Misericordia. Meanwhile, their other daughter, Dzenana (Sivac), became a Mis employee, working at the Village and McAuley.
We all understand the need to find a long-term home for our special children. That became even more urgent for Emad and Senita in 2020, when Emad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He said he wasn’t afraid for himself; his only concern was what would happen to Hana when her parents could no longer take care of her, whenever that might be. The wonderful news is that Emad is in good health and going strong.
Last December, Hana moved into the Village O’Donnell Home. While she is still adjusting to her new life, Emad says she is very happy, that she likes her roommate, and that she enjoys all the activities at DT. Meanwhile, Dzenana has become a Q at McAuley!
Emad’s love of Misericordia isn’t limited to his daughters or his job. He lights up when talking about the residents, telling funny stories about them. He and Senita sometimes bring residents to their home and attend their performances. Emad says, “Their smiles and hugs are our greatest reward.”
Emad told me about a fitness program he’s involved in: “On March 27, the Misericordia Fitness Department began several outdoor activities for our residents, including an outdoor run every Monday and Thursday from 2:45-4 pm. This was a desire of mine, and I participated. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to do this on the weekends, too.”
As if this wasn’t enough, Emad runs the Chicago Marathon as part of the Misericordia Team. He’s training for the next marathon now.
I talked with Emad shortly before his first MFA meeting as a parent. His excitement was palpable! How lucky Misericordia is to have people like Emad, Senita, Dzenana, and Hana as part of our community.
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