A St. Patrick’s Day To Remember 
by Terri Rafter
I recently had the pleasure of tagging along on the bus to go to the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade. What a fun experience that was! Not only did the staff show respect, patience and kindness to each resident, but the residents themselves were kind and helpful to each other. Added to their kindness is their sheer exuberance and joy. For some reason, laughter is the key to their happiness. Giggles and belly laughs come so easily to the residents. Wish we could all live our lives that way!
As the residents and I marched along Western Avenue, so many onlookers cheered and applauded for the residents. The residents ate this up, waving and shouting, “Happy St. Patrick’s Day!” One of the most poignant moments of this day was when the bus was returning into the parking lot by the Jean Marie Ryan Center. One resident after another started shouting “We’re home! We’re home!” Indeed, yes, Misericordia is their home where they are loved, valued and appreciated for who they are.
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