Parents see a change in their daughter
Hope Residence provides a home for people of all different ages, including 23-year-old Stephanie, the youngest resident to call Hope home. Stephanie moved to Hope nearly two years ago.
Stephanie was born in Romania and adopted by her parents at 23 months old, and she continued to live with them until moving to Hope. Stephanie, who is on the autism spectrum, has always been a social butterfly.
“Though she may not always have engaged in playing with other children or carry on long conversations, she still loved hanging out with friends, family, and people in general,” shared her mother, Anna.
The idea of moving away and leaving home was a big deal for Stephanie. While craving independence, she didn’t want to leave her mom alone so, initially, Stephanie stayed at the family-owned assisted living community in Long Lake, MN.
“She was familiar with the people and surroundings, as she had gone there and spent the day there many times,” Anna explained. “We were surprised when she called and said she wanted to stay longer. Long Lake would have been a long drive for us, so we mentioned moving someplace a little closer so it would be easier for us to visit her.”
Together, Anna and Stephanie toured Hope Residence, during which they were greeted multiple times by a resident, Jeanie, in her wheelchair.
“She made both Steph and I smile and giggle. Even though we were greeted by others, we felt Jeanie was the true ‘welcome wagon,’ as she warmed our hearts with her huge smile and presence,” said Anna.
On the drive home, Stephanie shared with her mom that she had enjoyed the tour and liked Hope. Shortly after that conversation, the pair saw a huge rainbow bending over the road and agreed it was a sign everything was going to work out.
A few weeks later, there was an opening at Hope, and the rest is history. Stephanie made the official move to Hope and settled in quickly. She made great friends, especially her roommate, Joyce. They are two peas in a pod.
Even though Stephanie is the youngest there, she loves the constant company around her.
“Stephanie is a very bubbly, friendly person. She loves being around other people—the more people the better,” shared Becca Pelowski, Program Manager at Hope. “She loves playing cards and collecting glasses or magnifying glasses. She will happily show you, her collection.”
When Stephanie visits her parents at home, she is always anxious to get back to her friends at Hope.
“That makes us feel good. This whole change in Stephanie came as a complete surprise to us, but we are happy she is so happy, and we tell her that’s all that matters,” Anna said.
Join us. At Hope Residence, person-centered care is tailored to meet the unique needs of each member of our family, focusing on personal growth and enrichment. Do you know someone who would like to join Hope? Visit myhopebp.org for more information.