A father-daughter dance to remember

Mike, a resident of Arden Courts in Westlake, gets a kiss from his daughters during a special evening of dinner and dancing arranged by the center's staff.

One magical evening, the “Central Station” of Arden Courts Memory Care Community in Westlake was transformed into a room of soft music, twinkling starlight, white linens, and a lively dance floor to fulfill a father’s heart's desire.

With the assistance of the helpful, caring and responsive staff and their families, Mike, a resident who is diagnosed with Frontotemporal Degeneration-type dementia, was able to enjoy a father-daughter dinner and dance with his two girls. The team went the whole nine yards to prepare and ensure everything was just right. The special night was part of an Arden Courts program called "Heart's Desire," where the staff fulfill a resident's wish.

Mike was dappered-up in a tuxedo and his daughters looked beautiful with their hair and make-up done before the event. Todd Szopo, Arden Courts' food service coordinator, prepared Mike’s favorite meal for his family to enjoy. After the dinner was complete, the room was transformed into an enchanted ballroom where Mike, primarily in a wheelchair, was able to stand and dance a few steps with his daughters, Hannah and Julia.

Needless to say, there was not a dry eye in the whole place. The joy on Mike’s face and the smiles on his daughters’ faces warmed the hearts of all in attendance.

“It was truly an unforgettable experience; the memory will live on for a very long time,” said Regina Rock, executive director. “In the 13-plus years I have been with Arden Courts, this has been one of the most touching moments that I’ve ever experienced.”

Lisa Anthony

I am the Marketing Director of Arden Courts Memory Care Community in Westlake

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Volume 9, Issue 17, Posted 9:47 AM, 09.06.2017