The Heart of Compassion: A Lifelong Legacy
Long before memory changes began to reshape her world, Amy’s mother lived a life defined by faith and service. A lifelong Catholic, she was, as Amy describes, “a very, very service-oriented person” who always reached out to help others.
“As long as I’ve known her,” Amy shared, “she has been very faithful… she would go out of her way to ask every person who was unhoused if they needed anything, and then want to go back and take them what they needed.”
Even as her memory changes, those core values of faith, kindness, and compassion remain unchanged.
The First Signs of Change
In May 2024, friends and neighbors of Amy’s mother began noticing small memory lapses that soon affected her independence. Once a substitute teacher in the Appleton School District and a helper at a local funeral home, she began struggling with driving, appointments, and daily tasks.
Doctor visits and memory tests soon followed, confirming what Amy had feared. A new journey had begun—one requiring both emotional strength and practical support.
Navigating Caregiving
The early days were overwhelming.
“It was a train wreck,” Amy admitted. “My mom was very defensive at times—with [those we met with] and with me. I was trying to walk that balance of them needing to know things but also managing her comfort.”
Living in Chicago while caring for her mom in Appleton meant juggling distance, logistics, and emotion. Amy knew she needed help she could trust.
Finding Support at St. Paul Elder Services
That help came through the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), which led Amy to the Passages day respite programs at St. Paul Elder Services—specialized programs designed to support people living with dementia and their caregivers.
Her mother first joined Memory Connections, a brain-enhancement program for those in the early stages of dementia. Later, she transitioned to Memory Reflections, which fosters social connection through creative projects, group activities, and conversation circles.
Door-to-door transportation made participation easy.
“It was, by far and away, the easiest support I’ve set up for her,” Amy said. “The program has been very smooth and seamless.”
Restoring Purpose and Joy
For Amy’s mother, these programs became more than a place to spend the day—they restored purpose, identity, and belonging.
“It’s essentially her job,” Amy said. “It brings her the same satisfaction that working did.”
Each day is filled with familiar routines, creative expression, and community.
“Having that routine and predictability with people who understand has really made her feel happier and very, very safe,” Amy said.
For Amy, it means peace of mind—knowing her mom is engaged, cared for, and surrounded by kindness.
The Emotional and Practical Impact
These programs have transformed daily life for both mother and daughter.
For her mother, they offer connection and joy.
For Amy, they offer relief and reassurance.
“Having this support allows me to step away without guilt,” she said. “I know she’s happy, safe, and cared for. That’s priceless.”
A Message of Hope for Caregivers
Amy encourages other families to reach out for help.
“Take the risk with this team,” she said. “It’s safe. They’re going to help you, respect your privacy, but also support you.”
She recommends these programs for families who want to keep loved ones at home, those navigating financial limits of private care, and anyone seeking comprehensive, compassionate dementia support. For Amy, connecting her mother to St. Paul was life-changing—bringing both care and peace of mind.
Community Services that Care
At the heart of this story are Memory Connections and Memory Reflections, specialized respite programs that preserve dignity and foster purpose for people living with dementia — while offering caregivers vital support and relief.
Other programs include:
- Club Gabriel — the Fox Valley’s only state-certified adult day center, specializing in dementia care.
- St. Paul at Home — individualized in-home care to support independence.
- Support Groups — safe spaces for caregivers and individuals to share, learn, and connect.
- Education Programs — workshops on dementia and caregiving.
- Elder Match — volunteer companionship services.
- Foot and Nail Clinic — health-focused care to support mobility.
- Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) — 24/7 safety and peace of mind.
Reliable door-to-door transportation ensures access for every program.
For caregivers seeking support, St. Paul Elder Services offers a welcoming, faith-based environment where dignity, connection, and purpose are at the center of care.
A Testament to Resilience and Connection
While memory loss continues to reshape their journey, Amy’s mother remains a light of gratitude and grace.
“Every time we go anywhere,” Amy reflected, “she goes out of her way to say, ‘Thank you so much for what you do.’”
Amy’s story is a powerful reminder that, even in the face of memory loss, dignity, purpose, and connection can endure.
Through St. Paul Elder Services, families find not only care—but hope.
📞 Call: 920-766-6020
Because connection matters—at every stage of life.