Mildred’s Story

Mildred Howard has always worried about older sister Jessie Fulwood, who lost her sight as a child. Those worries increased when Mildred, who every day drove across town on her way to work to check on her sibling, discovered Jessie was being neglected by her caregivers. That is when Mildred invited Jessie to move in with her and husband Curtis Howard.

Soon after, Mildred enrolled her 76-year-old sister in Iona’s harry and Jeanette Weinberg Adult Day health, Wellness and arts center, which serves seniors with dementia, other chronic conditions and disabilities. Medicaid and support from Iona’s generous donors cover the cost of Jessie’s participation.

“Jessie Mae needs to be in a pro- gram rather than sitting at home all day with nothing to do,” says Mildred. “The people are real nice, she participates in activities such as art therapy and exercise which she wouldn’t have access to otherwise and two nurses monitor her blood pressure.”

“The center is good for both of us,” adds Mildred, 61. “it gives me the flexibility and independence to live my life and it’s a good fit for Jessie Mae.” how does she know? “Because she’s a chatterbox,” laughs the younger sister. “Every night at dinner, she tells us about the other participants, the staff and nurses. Clearly, she’s in good hands.”

Iona “goes above and beyond the call of duty,” adds Mildred. This winter, when they were without water for several days because of burst pipes, Iona saw to it that Jessie Mae had access to meals she normally would have had at home. “You don’t find programs like that,” adds Mildred.