To Emerald Crest and Open Circle: A Heartfelt Letter of Gratitude
January 21, 2022
By Mark S. Hanson
I grew up in the Twin Cities and when I was fifteen, my dad was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. His illness had a profound impact on our family. I still draw upon the example of my mom’s caring for him.
We Promised to be There for Each Other no Matter What Unfolded
When my wife Ione and I were married, we promised to be there for each other no matter what unfolded. Those vows may seem easy to make, but such mutual caring, compassion and commitment is what marriage is about.
Ione and I met in college in 1964, starting a six-year journey that could be a movie! It involved being good friends, dating, breaking our engagement with others and uncertainties about our feelings for each other.
Finally, we went out for pizza and talked about the six-year bond between us. By evening’s end, we were planning our wedding! We both graduated from Augsburg. Ione, with a Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Hunter, served as a pediatric social worker. She was Director of Social Work for Children’s Hospital.
After attending Union Seminary, I became a pastor serving three parishes, then Bishop of the Saint Paul Area Synod and Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. I also served as President of the Lutheran World Federation. Ione traveled with me throughout the world.
In 2014 we returned to Minneapolis to be with family, whose loving support remains steadfast.
Ione was diagnosed with early-onset dementia. A friend recommended Cassia’s Open Circle adult day services. At first Ione was anxious when I left her there. The director said, “Please stay with Ione for as long as it takes for her to feel comfortable.” That’s just one example of Open Circle respecting each member’s dignity.
Dignity and Dedication to Her Well-being
Ione now resides in Cassia’s Emerald Crest memory care community. I find that same respect for her dignity and dedication to her well-being. I feel a partnership with the staff as we care for Ione.
Our experiences with Open Circle and Emerald Crest make me feel good about being a donor. It takes private, public and personal partnerships to support quality elder care. We need to step up and do this together for people like Ione and those who love them.
This article was included in the Fall 2021 edition of the Cassia newsletter. Download the full newsletter at this link.
