In the End, My Worries Didn’t Amount to Much

Sr. Joanne Skalski

After experiencing a heart attack in January, my follow up care took me to a nursing facility in Portage County, Wisconsin.  From there, it was arranged that I should travel to Marymount for continued care.  I was concerned about a lot of things;  the packing, the drive, leaving behind all that was familiar to me, and wondering what my life would be like in such new surroundings.  In addition I was still healing from my recent surgery, and I was worried that the stress of moving might affect the progress I was making.  In the end, my worries didn't amount to much.  Allison did all of my packing for me.  On a beautiful, sunny day Sr. Michelle and Cindy drove me to Milwaukee where Sr. Linda met us at the airport and flew with me to Cleveland.  Sr. Linda was very considerate and capable in assisting me during the flight.  When we arrived in Cleveland, we were met by Sr. Joyce who drove me to Clare Hall, and thus, I began to settle in.

I have gotten to know a lot of the sisters quickly, and I feel welcomed.  The health staff has been marvelous.  Since my arrival I have gone through a lot of therapy and I have been able to regain my strength and balance.

My biggest adjustment has been in missing the people I left behind and not having the familiarity of my former surroundings.  Yet, knowing that our sisters are here has helped.  The lay people also want to be friends, and together we are becoming a new family.