A gift for the grandma who has everything
Getting a gift for Judy Putz could be a challenge. What’s the perfect thing for a hard worker who is generous with her time and likes to keep busy, a woman of faith for whom church is an important part of life? Her granddaughter, Jenna Putz, knew just the thing.
“I thought a donation to the activities department at St. Michael’s Assisted Living would be a meaningful gift. Material things are not as important as experiences, and the experiences my grandparents have had with St. Michael’s enrich their lives,” said Jenna, who made the gift with her brother in honor of Judy and her husband, Harry.
Judy was speechless at the gift.
“Seeing the reaction on my grandparents’ faces when I give a donation in their honor to a cause that means a lot to them is priceless,” Jenna said.
Judy has a deep fondness for St. Michael’s, which became like her second home while her mother and Harry’s mother were residents there. Even after their mothers passed away, Judy and Harry continued to visit and volunteer.
“When I’d go up there and visit, I’d see the nurses set the ladies’ hair after their showers. I thought, ‘I can do that.’ So, it all started with setting hair,” Judy said.
When St. Michael’s got a new chaplain, he needed help with the chapel services. Judy took that on. Soon she was folding laundry.
“I’m not a game player. I’d rather fold laundry. When I see a basket full, I fold it; I know where to put it. And we just go from there. I just keep getting more involved,” said Judy, who has also made donations to the activities department and the chapel in support of the ministry of St. Michael’s.
Residents also appreciate Judy and Harry’s miniature horses. The couple used to bring them to St. Michael’s, but in recent years residents have taken a van out to the Putz’s instead. The animals bring back a lot of pleasant childhood memories for residents.
Whether it’s accompanying residents to appointments or cleaning out their closets, Judy enjoys spending time at St. Michael’s. She truly listens to residents and becomes a part of their lives.
“One of our ladies always had cold hands so Judy purchased a hand muff for her. What a wonderful gesture,” said St. Michael’s Activities Director Cid Serva. “I’ve been blessed to have Judy as a volunteer as well as a friend.”
“The pay is good — the smiles, the ‘thank yous,’” Judy said. “I love it.”
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