By Marilyn Olson

Mature adults are leaders. We have seen a few things, and we have learned a few things. We are hardworking individuals who have learned leadership over a lifetime of refining career skills. Our brains are “time wise.”
Most of the 370,000 everyday leaders over 55 living in greater Oklahoma City are grateful for an opportunity to give time, experience, and finances. Mature adults generously offer these resources to the community without which there would be a void. The individuals, businesses, organizations and faith communities who see the value and incorporate that experience will benefit and will also become wise.
There are many examples of this mature, everyday leadership among the VillagesOKC membership, from pastors and former executives to engineers and journalists. All these individuals bring with them an eagerness to remain active and to give back to their community. VillagesOKC offers the opportunity for older adults to use the skills they’ve acquired over a lifetime or to learn new ways to grow and contribute.
The incredible wit and wisdom of people over 50 can reveal secrets and insights for living a meaningful life – simply not possible without experience. Their thoughtful perspectives offer a treasure trove of life lessons about perseverance, the human spirit, and staying positive in the midst of great challenges.
Leaders over 50 became leaders because they have utilized their learning to continue growing. Often this growth has led to a paradigm shift opening more doors of opportunity. This quality gives hope and causes others to say “she is inspiring”; “he is such a delight to be with,” or I hope I can be as sharp and interesting a person as he is.”
When people are happy and confident, others enjoy their company and follow their leadership in the community or organization. To think that organizations, businesses and faith communities would ignore those over 50 when they could be the beneficiary of experience, talent and generosity.
Fortunately, Oklahoma City is the kind of community which values the irreplaceable talent and wisdom of mature adults in every sector of the community. It simply makes sense to begin changing the conversation about aging and include these generous and wise adults as an integral part and a key partner.
The community benefits when recognizing leaders are leaders at any age. VillagesOKC is a plan for aging that connects a community leading the way to fill the gaps.

Story by Darl Devault, Contributing Editor

In late February, more than 300 senior citizens gathered at the Oklahoma State Capitol for Senior Day, an annual event where seniors can meet their elected representatives and discuss issues affecting the aging population in the state. This event is a crucial platform for seniors to have their voices heard, and this year’s gathering was no exception.
Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell was among the elected representatives who addressed the seniors gathered in the House Chambers. He emphasized the need for quality opportunities for seniors to socialize and pointed to Oklahoma’s many state parks as the ideal place. Pinnell’s comments highlight the importance of promoting social connections and community engagement among seniors, which can significantly benefit their health and well-being.
Additionally, Pinnell spoke about the unique nature of Oklahoma’s tourism industry, which he described as more organic than many other states. He cited Oklahoma’s rich history and heritage, including its Native American culture and the famous Chisholm Trail and Route 66, as major tourist draws. Pinnell’s remarks underscore the importance of promoting and preserving Oklahoma’s cultural heritage for tourism and the benefit of the state’s residents, including seniors.
The Southern Oklahoma Development Association Ombudsman Supervisor and Systems Advocate Rebekah Williams served as the emcee for the House Chambers proceedings in her duties with its Area Agency on Aging. Several times in an hour and a half of addressing senior needs, she expressed the importance of getting back to the important agenda since COVID-19 had interrupted the annual event for three years. “What an amazing sight to see beautiful Oklahoma seniors in the House Chambers, Williams said. “It was wonderful for all of us to be together again, a true blessing to my soul.”
Another elected representative who addressed the seniors at Senior Day was Speaker of the House Rep. Charles McCall, R-Atoka, who is the longest-serving speaker in state history, now in his fourth term. He spoke about current bills being discussed in the state House and Senate and other issues facing Oklahoma. McCall’s comments highlight the significance of the legislative process in addressing the concerns of seniors and other constituents.
Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, discussed two bills she was working to have enacted into law related to elder care. The first, House Bill 2753, would create the Vulnerable Adult Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation Registry, a searchable database requested by the Oklahoma Silver-Haired Legislature. This registry would include the names and identifiable information of people convicted of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult. Miller noted that the bill was supported by the Oklahoma Alliance on Aging, the Oklahoma State Council on Aging, and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Oklahoma.
Miller also discussed House Bill 2747, which would create the Office of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Resource Coordination within the State Department of Health. This office would provide statewide coordination, service system development, and information on education, support, and other available services for people with Alzheimer’s or loved ones with the disease. Miller worked with the Alzheimer’s Association to create the bill, which she said marks the start of implementing the State Plan on Alzheimer’s created in 2008.
HB2747 would also establish the Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementia Research Fund and the Dementia Caregiver Support Group & Education Program Development Fund to distribute grants as approved by awards committees.
“Oklahoma has had a state plan on Alzheimer’s for 15 years, and while progress has been made to address the programmatic and policy needs, there’s more work to be done,” Miller said. “Government must protect our vulnerable citizens, and sadly that sometimes includes our seniors who are at risk of being taken advantage of or suffer from memory loss.”
Newly appointed in January, Deborah Shropshire, M.D., Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ executive director addressed the department’s State Plan on Aging. As the first woman OKDHS director, she told the seniors of her commitment to ensuring senior citizens can age well in Oklahoma.
Several speakers said senior issues have been a significant focal point during the early stages of the legislative session, and recent bills regarding seniors have been focused on the quality of care in senior centers. The new legislation is trying to ensure that as many seniors as possible are proud of the facilities they live in.
“It was important that seniors visited their legislators in their offices and met their staff to make specific recommendations for improving services at long-term care facilities,” said Trish Emig, president of the Oklahoma Silver Haired Legislature Alumni Association. “This included nursing homes, assisted living and similar adult care homes and seeking more funding and support for other vital services for Oklahoma seniors.”

INTEGRIS Health is looking for both sponsors and teams to play in its inaugural Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, April 15 at Chicken N Pickle in Oklahoma City!
The tournament will bring together true pickleball competitors, those who play for fun and even those trying the sport for the very first time.
But the event is about more than just fun and games. It is an official fundraiser to help support the life-changing services provided at the INTEGRIS Health Arcadia Trails Center for Addiction Recovery.
The facility is Oklahoma’s most advanced state-of-the-art addiction, mental health and trauma treatment center in Edmond, offering a full continuum of care to include both inpatient and outpatient services for adults 18 and older.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 15 at Chicken N Pickle, located at 8400 N. Oklahoma Ave. in Oklahoma City.
There are several opportunities to sponsor, play or both! However, there are limited spots available to play, so act fast before the bracket is full. The deadline to sponsor and be included in printed materials is Wednesday, March 15. Attached is a sponsorship form, or you can register online at https://www.integrisgiving.org/pickleball.

From Terry “Travels with Terry” Zinn t4z@aol.com

With only a short visit to exciting towns, I like to stay in the mix, and within walking distance to its dining and attractions. Not having to rent a car at the airport has its advantages, and takes some of the stress out of vacationing. This is what I did when in Denver Colorado, by making my home base The Residence Inn by Marriot at 1725 Champa Street. As it turned out I was in the middle of the downtown dining action I would take in. It was only a block or two, to catch the 16th street hop on and off trolley, saving you steps and time. At this Residence Inn, with the amenities of breakfast and a friendly wait staff I could leisurely start my day, after a sound sleep the previous night. In a walkable downtown like Denver, and with its trolley service to popular areas, getting around was much easier and more congenial than driving in traffic, hunting for the locale, and then trying to secure parking. Plus walking in the mile high city is a great way to take in the altitude’s fresh air and work up a thirst. Of course this precludes snow falls, blizzards and subzero temps, which I was lucky enough to avoid for my November visit.
One venue not to be missed is the historic Brown Palace Hotel. You need not stay the night, but a moment or two in the elegant Atrium Lobby is a treat. Another treat is to avail yourself of the food, service and ambiance of the Palace Arms and Churchill Bar. Here old world style is a natural and only surpassed by the culinary delights served by the experienced staff. European antiques and period artwork decorates the expansive room and includes a set of dueling pistols said to have belonged to Napoleon. An informative self-guided tour booklet is available for your leisure.
And then there is the view from the Peaks Lounge on the 26th floor of the Hyatt Regency, on 14th and California streets , where they offer a variety of cocktails (martinis of course my favorite) along with light appetizers and views of the city and its horizon of mountains. It is quite a popular place and while the seating might not match up to the demand, it’s worth a try. I came for a sunset, which in November seemed almost to set earlier than when Peaks was to open at 4 pm, but I made myself the first to be seated and paused for the sunset. The only disappointment was that the end of the room where the sunset over the mountains could have been seen best was blocked off for a later private party. It was a shame for this brief Denver visitor, but the libation concoctions were both delightful and promptly served. I do so dislike ordering an ice berg (frost on the pond) martini to have it set at the bar and warm up.
The hard to get in, Green Russell underground bar in a speak-easy style bar, was a bit of a disappointment to my expectations. It was very much in demand, and my reservation was accepted, but with a bit of aloofness. What is amazing here is that the bartenders take their time and carve a block of ice into a globe for your drink. I was told it is to get the most chill for the drink without diluting it. I think it might also fill the glass so much so, that there is less drink in the drink. They have rules of no cell phones (great) and no standing, so you must reserve a table or place at the bar as I did. The Martini I had was exotically mixed with fresh herbs and press to order juices. So don’t be in a hurry. If you don’t like crowds in small places, this might not be your bar.
For an atmosphere of the old world try the art deco of The Cruise Room, Denver’s original Martini Bar, in the 1891 Oxford Hotel near the Union train station. Venture into their imaginative appetizers while holding your Martini glass high and paying homage to another age. Under the 1933 art deco panels, inspired by the Queen Mary ship, you may toast your good taste in art and atmosphere with a White Cosmopolitan of Finlandia Raspberry Vodka, Cointreau, Lime and fresh white cranberry juice and follow it with a Bond 007 of Stoli Vodka, Bombay Gin with olive or Lemon twist, as I did. The Cruise Room won the prestigious Miami Art Deco Award in 1983, and might win your praises too.
You’d think you might not be able to see straight from your weekend of libation sampling during your short downtown Denver visit. But after moderation, I suggest you see the Denver Art Museum with a current exhibition to accompany their permanent collection. With a bit of planning you too can take in the best of downtown Denver in a short weekend; be it art, Larimer Square shopping or gourmet dining.
Before you go check out:
https://www.denver.org, https://www.brownpalace.com, https://residence-inn.marriott.com, https://www.theoxfordhotel.com, http://www.partybusboulder.com, https://www.larimersquare.com

Story by Darl DeVault, contributing editor

Nerve pain is a debilitating condition that affects a significant portion of the population, particularly seniors. The Northwest Nerve Renewal Neuropathy Clinic (NRNC), located in the shared medical building Edgewater Medical Center is rapidly building more local facilities to address the nerve pain seniors experience.
The NRNC celebrated its first anniversary on March 23 with a community coffee sponsored by the Northwest Oklahoma City Chamber, followed by a ribbon cutting and open house. This Northwest NRNC was the first opened in the greater Oklahoma City area, followed by clinics in South Oklahoma City and recently Norman.
The clinic’s mission is to help Oklahomans renew their quality of life through innovative nerve pain treatments that provide safe and effective relief so that patients reclaim their joy, mobility, and freedom. The Nerve Renewal clinic treats all types of neuropathic pain. This includes diabetic, chemotherapy induced, autoimmune, injury sustained, and surgically related to name a few.
The three clinics and the new one to be opened in June in Midwest City are making therapy more accessible to patients who may have difficulty traveling long distances due to persistent nerve pain. Patients do not need a doctor’s referral to receive treatment. The clinics offer Electroanalgesia (EA) treatments, which have been approved by Medicare, Medicaid, and the VA and have been shown in studies to provide long-term pain reduction for up to 80 percent of patients without surgery or medication.
NRNC CEO Tim Bales, 60, said the Northwest clinic staff has provided 6,500 treatments in the year it has been open. “The number of Oklahomans our ability to help with their nerve pain has been way above our expectations,” Bales said. “Our staff care about their patients and are good at their jobs. We proudly introduce Stacey Wilson today, who recently brought her adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner certification (AGNP-C) background to our Northwest clinic.”
EA treatments involve a series of 16 to 24 injections of a pharmaceutical-grade nutrient blend combined with EA to relieve most symptoms. The high-frequency energy used in the therapy blocks the pain signal in the injured part of the body, providing lasting relief with no recovery needed. The treatments mimic nerve signaling and help the circulation in the patient’s extremities to further promote nerve healing.
The EA treatments reduce edema, inflammation, and analgesia, facilitating metabolism in the neuropathic extremity. Additionally, it stimulates peripheral nerves to relieve pain while increasing local blood circulation to provide symptomatic relief of chronic pain. EA therapy is covered by major insurance companies, Medicare, Medicaid, and the VA.
“This therapy is one of the oldest medical treatments available,” said Stacey Wilson, AGNP-C. “Ben Franklin used an electrical device to treat frozen shoulder symptoms, and it spares your organs in helping the patient become more mobile.” A certified adult-gerontology nurse practitioner is an APRN specializing in treating adults and geriatric populations with more than 500 hours of supervised clinical experience.
“My background is in Medical Oncology so I’ve caused quite a bit of chemotherapy induced neuropathy through necessary cancer treatments,” Wilson said in an interview. “I am very excited to join Nerve Renewal so I can help relieve neuropathic pain and provide needed comfort to increase the quality of life for my patients. Electric currents are the oldest documented form of medical treatment going back to ancient times. The medical term is Electroanalgesia and with advanced computer technology we are able to capitalize on the electrical properties of the body and successfully treat neuropathic pain. It is my pleasure to work with such a dedicated team at Nerve Renewal and I look forward to heading up the new Midwest City clinic soon.”
The clinics provide non-invasive treatments for neuropathy and nerve pain, relieving pain or tingling in the feet and hands. The three clinics treat peripheral neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, phantom limb syndrome, and post-surgical nerve pain conditions.
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that often results from damage to nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord. It can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the patient’s hands and feet, affecting walking or digestion. Peripheral neuropathy is typically caused by diabetes, chemotherapy, or trauma to the nerve endings, with sufferers describing the symptoms as stabbing pain or burning sensations.
The 16 Northwest Oklahoma City Chamber members attending welcomed the Northwest Nerve Renewal Neuropathy Clinic with their traditional ribbon cutting for their newest member after everyone gathered and introduced themselves. Several members emphasized how the Chamber is proactive in helping small businesses in the area with services and growing.
In addition to the northwest location, the clinics are at 9821 S May Ave., Suite B, in OKC and 4019 N Flood Ave. in Norman. The newest is being prepared for a June opening in Midwest City at 8121 National Drive in the M.D. Medical Tower, a shared medical building. With the expansion of clinics in the greater Oklahoma City area, more patients can access this innovative treatment and renew their quality of life.
Visit our website at: https://nerverenewalnow.com/

Anna Jackson

(Right) Anna Jackson of Sand Springs turned 100 today and celebrated with family and friends. Anna has been a member of the Trinity Baptist Church quilt group for 40 years! She loved to eat anything from the garden in her younger days, but now loves anything chocolate! Happy Birthday, Anna!

Evelyn Napier

(Left) Evelyn Napier of Tulsa celebrated her 100th Birthday today with a precision honor guard from Bixby High School. There have been many memorable changes during Evelyn’s lifetime – especially seeing flights to the moon. Her words of wisdom to us are: Don’t Drink or Smoke. Happy Birthday wishes to Evelyn!

Lou Ella Revel

(Right) Lou Revel of Oklahoma City was 100 last July and we recently celebrated her as a Centenarian of Oklahoma! She attended Sooner State Beauty College in Oklahoma City and had a career as a beautician, continuing to fix hair in her home until she was 90 years young. Her words of wisdom to us are: Keep Moving. Love Jesus. Work Hard.

Hattie Mann

(Right) Hattie Mann of Okmulgee celebrates her 100th birthday! She worked as an accounting clerk in California, then moved to Las Vegas and back to Okmulgee. She is a long-time member of the Okmulgee City-Wide Prayer Band. Hattie loves tacos! Her favorite song is Precious Lord and she shares these words of wisdom with us – Seek the Lord.

By Nick Thomas

Don’t expect any vocal surprises if you ever attend a concert featuring Gary Lewis & the Playboys.
“I’m a real stickler for absolute originality,” said Lewis from his home in Rochester, New York. “The fans want to hear the songs just like they remember them from the radio, they don’t want to hear new arrangements, so we keep it very original when playing live.”
Fans can also expect to enjoy most of Lewis’s big hits from the 60s including, “This Diamond Ring,” “Everybody Loves a Clown,” and “Green Grass.” In March, Gary and the boys with be performing in several Florida cities (see www.garylewisandtheplayboys.com for their 2023 touring schedule).
“We had seven Top 10 songs in a row in the space of two years, so I was very blessed to have such amazing success so quickly,” noted Lewis.
“This Diamond Ring,” the group’s first record, reached the number 1 spot in the U.S. in February 1965 and Lewis remembers excitedly watching it climb the charts over six weeks. But the upbeat version released was very different from the original.
“I first heard it in producer Snuffy Garrett’s office at Liberty Records when he played a demo, a very different slow version,” recalled Lewis. “At the time, I just wanted to get a song recorded and said I loved it. But then Leon Russell made a new arrangement – the version that was released – and it became this huge hit.”
Lewis credits his mother for supporting his early music passion, offering financial help and advice, unbeknownst to his father.

“Before our first hit, we were doing a lot of auditions as Gary & the Playboys because my mom didn’t want me getting work just because I had a famous father,” said Lewis. “When Diamond Ring began climbing the charts, she said I should put Lewis in the band’s name. I did, but still not everyone realized I had a very famous entertainment father and so we were thrilled to get work based solely on our talent.”
His dad, of course, was comedian Jerry Lewis who had no idea his son had a hit record until Gary presented him with a gift. “When I got the first gold record for Diamond Ring, I signed it to him and I went down to Paramount Studios where he was filming and I walked in and said ’Dad, this is for you.’ He was very surprised and, I think, quite proud.”
Much has been written over the years of the strained relationship between Jerry Lewis and his children.
“I was always able to separate my career from what he and I were,” said Lewis. ”It bothered me that we never got along too well, but that’s just the way it was and I’m over it.”
When he performs today, Lewis’s songs not only have the same arrangements as the originals, but a similar sound despite being performed by all-new Playboys.
“Over the years there have been many sets of Playboys, but today’s group has been with me since 2004 and has that same great original sound,” he says. We don’t do a huge number of shows a year now, but I still love it and seeing the fans, new and old, who still love our music.”
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery in Alabama and has written features, columns, and interviews for numerous magazines and newspapers. See https://www.getnickt.org/.

By Lt.j.g. James Caliva

The U.S. Navy is preparing to bring Navy Week back to Oklahoma City June 26-July 2, with Sailors from across the fleet set to take part in the service’s signature outreach program. Oklahoma City Navy Week will give the community an opportunity to learn about the Navy, its Sailors and its importance to national security and prosperity.
Oklahoma City Navy Week will feature in-person demonstrations, performances, and engagements throughout the week that will include:
* Senior Navy Leaders – Flag officer and senior civilian Navy leaders with ties to Oklahoma City and the surrounding area.
* Navy Band Southeast – Performances and masterclasses with Navy Musicians.
* Navy Expeditionary Combat Command – Educational STEM presentations and fitness demonstrations by technicians, medics, and divers.
* U.S. Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command – Educational presentation on the importance of atmospheric and oceanographic science and the overall value of STEM education to the Navy.
* Naval History and Heritage Command – Educational presentations and lesson plans about the deep ties between Oklahoma City and the Navy.
* Navy Talent Acquisition Group – Educational presentations, community service projects and static displays.
Oklahoma City was selected by the Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO) as one of 15 locations for the 2023 Navy Week program. The Navy is returning to Oklahoma City following its last Navy Week which was held in 2019.
“We are excited to bring the Navy Week program to Oklahoma City,” said NAVCO’s director, Cmdr. Anthony Falvo. “Seapower and America’s Navy are more important now than ever before. The U.S. Navy remains our nation’s most powerful instrument of military influence and Navy Weeks allow us to showcase how the Navy serves America at sea, in the air, and ashore.”
“We coordinate about 75 outreach events during a Navy Week,” said NAVCO Navy Week program manager Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Chambers. “Outreach events range from corporate, civic, government, education, media, veterans, community service and youth engagements. We’re excited about this year’s schedule as it allows us to visit new markets as well as return to cities like Oklahoma City.”
Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy’s flagship outreach effort to regions without a significant Navy presence, with over 250 Navy Weeks held in more than 80 different U.S. markets. Each year, the program reaches more than 140 million people — about half the U.S. population.

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

Here in Oklahoma, we know all too well the damage flooding causes and the danger it presents. In May 2019, Oklahomans saw some of the worst flooding in history after 17 tornadoes struck the state in one day. The storm carried 5 to 6 inches of rainfall, causing the tragic loss of lives and significant financial damage. Flooding devastated thousands of Oklahomans, resulting in more than $31 million in estimated losses. In addition, more than 6,000 flood claims were reported, yet far too many storm victims did not have flood insurance.
March is Flood Insurance Awareness Month in Oklahoma. I want to remind Oklahomans to get ready before spring flooding and consider getting flood insurance coverage now. Here are three reasons why now is a great time to learn more about the importance and benefits of flood insurance.
You live in Oklahoma. Flooding is the number one natural disaster in the United States. 90% of natural disasters in the U.S. involve flooding. While most standard homeowners policies cover tornadoes, hail, and wildfires, they do NOT cover floods. You are 27 times more likely to experience a flood than a fire during a 30-year mortgage.
30-day waiting period. It typically takes 30 days for a flood policy to go into effect, so the time to buy is well before a disaster. That is why you need to purchase or renew flood insurance well in advance. Waiting until you see the water rushing in is too late. Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or through private insurance. Talk to your agent today.
Cost of flooding. Flooding can be an emotionally and financially devastating event. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, an inch of water in a home could cause more than $25,000 in damages. About 33% of all flood claims come from outside of high-risk areas. In 2021, the average flood insurance claim payment through NFIP was $44,050, while Oklahoma’s average flood insurance premium was $81 a month.
While we cannot prevent another flood from occurring, we can get our state financially prepared for the damage when it hits. This month let’s make sure Oklahomans understand their flood risk. As I always like to remind folks—If it rains where you live, it can flood where you live.
For more insurance information, please contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1-800-522-0071 or visit our website at
https://www.oid.ok.gov/.

by Greg Schwem

Mary Louise and Marty showed up faithfully at the park each morning at 7:30. Stopping their SUV in the same space, Mary Louise, 68, emerged with a bowl of water, followed by her husband, 85, and armed with a tennis ball. They opened the car’s hatch as if they were pulling back a Broadway curtain to reveal the show’s marquee star.
Shamus, their 3-year-old border collie, played the role well.
For the next 45 minutes, owners commiserated as our dogs, including Macie, my cockapoo, frollicked in the unfenced park, regardless of weather. Shamus never tired of chasing the ball, no matter how far Marty’s plastic contraption launched it. We laughed as our dogs sniffed owners’ butts, knowing treats were in nearby pockets. I began using the owners as my “test audience,” trying out lines I might use on stage in upcoming standup comedy shows. One day I remarked that I was going on a business trip but was anxious to get home “to be with those I love the most.”
“It’s hard to leave your dog,” I added.
Mary Louise laughed the hardest.
The dogs rolled, wrestled, barked and slurped. Shamus was usually the ringleader.
“He’ll run around like this every morning and then he’ll sleep all afternoon,” Mary Louise said.
Gesturing to Marty, I replied, “And what will Shamus do?”
More laughs. They came fast and freely.
Until one day, they didn’t.
Returning from nearly a month-long corporate speaking tour, Macie and I arrived at the park to see Mary Louise exiting her SUV, clutching the water bowl. As she moved toward me, I saw an opportunity for humor.
“We’re all losing our memories, Mary Lou, but did you forget Shamus?”
I regretted it the moment I saw the tears.
“We lost him,” was all she could say before breaking down.
Shamus, she explained after composing herself, suffered from seizures but neither she nor her husband thought they would cause their beloved companion’s death so quickly. Anticipating my next question, she said Marty hadn’t been able to return to the park.
“But you’re still coming,” I said.
“I wouldn’t know what to do all day,” she replied, walking toward the gazebo where the owners congregated if it was raining, snowing or oppressively hot. Our dogs never complained about the elements because, well, they’re dogs.
How I wanted to make Mary Louise laugh at this particular moment. Was there something, anything, I could say to bring out a smile or even a soft chuckle? I firmly believe humor has a place anywhere. I recounted the funerals I’ve been to where mourners laughed more than they cried. Occasionally I’ve been asked to speak about the deceased, solely because a relative figured I could lighten the mood with comedy. It’s never an easy task, but one I relish.
Yet, here I was, looking at a woman whose morning routine would never be the same, despite her best attempt. Macie was fidgeting, so I told her to hang in there, turned and headed for home with my very healthy four-legged friend.
A week later Macie and I returned, hoping to see the cadre of dogs we’d come to expect. On this particular day, the grass was empty. There was only the SUV in the parking lot.
As we got closer, the door opened and Mary Louise emerged. She’d been waiting for one of us to arrive, just so she could lavish love on an animal, even if it wasn’t hers. I knew she’d been crying.
I asked about Marty. He still wasn’t making the trip.
Hesitating, I plowed forward with the “elephant in the room” question.
“Do you think you’ll get another one?”
“I’d like to, but I’m not sure I can go through this again,” she said.
“I know something you need right now,” I said, wrapping my arms around her.
Wear a mask if it makes you feel safer or more comfortable, but never be afraid to reach out, literally and physically, to someone in need. Do it today.
Because, like laughter, hugs will always have a place in the world.
(Greg Schwem is a corporate stand-up comedian and author of two books: “Text Me If You’re Breathing: Observations, Frustrations and Life Lessons From a Low-Tech Dad” and the recently released “The Road To Success Goes Through the Salad Bar: A Pile of BS From a Corporate Comedian,” available at Amazon.com. Visit Greg on the web at www.gregschwem.com.
You’ve enjoyed reading, and laughing at, Greg Schwem’s monthly humor columns in Senior Living News. But did you know Greg is also a nationally touring stand-up comedian? And he loves to make audiences laugh about the joys, and frustrations, of growing older. Watch the clip and, if you’d like Greg to perform at your senior center or senior event, contact him through his website at www.gregschwem.com)