On leap year in February of 2024, Mary Ritz’s health unexpectedly became dire, and our family made the important decision to move her from the hospital to the Abraham House. Without the adequate space for everyone to be together for the time she had left, The Gold Room became our solace. This home brought in the light to a time that felt so dark – she immediately commented on how beautiful the room was and how happy she was to be there. Yellow was her color, though she would say she looks good in any color, but the bright atmosphere immediately calmed the situation we were facing.
Through the five night, six day stay in their care, Mary’s family was able to be with her the entire time. The nighttime was the most confusing and difficult, and overnight visitation is not allowed in hospitals. To be able to stay right with her in a comfortable recliner in her room, or have the comfort of your own bedroom right upstairs, it helped knowing she was never alone. The room was equipped with streaming services available to play Meet Me In St. Louis and The Godfather, a fully equipped kitchen with a special place for her Outshine Bars, and the in room Alexa to play Pavarotti and Dean Martin – she was exactly where she needed to be.
The care from the staff of the Abraham House was more comforting and well trained than we could have ever imagined. Due to how unexpected this experience was for the family, there were a lot of emotions. Mary was looking forward to being a flower girl in her granddaughter’s wedding in a few short months, and the staff put on a wedding ceremony for Mary overnight, complete with a corsage and music. The staff dressed her in her greens for St Patrick’s Day, and put her in a beautiful red the night before St. Joseph’s Day to honor her Italian traditions. They were even able to instinctively know when to tell the family to prepare to say their final goodbyes – something we were adamant she was not to be alone for.
As difficult as it is to reflect on the time spent with Mary during her final days, it felt like a vindication for all she has given to us. Mary was kind to strangers her entire life and when she needed it most received that kindness from strangers. Mary gave when she had little to spare, and was able to be cared for by a glorious non-profit in our community. All of the goodness that she poured into the world during her life was able to come back to her before she left – and that is the reason our family will be forever grateful for The Abraham House.
Granddaughter Alyssa Callahan, Daughter Jeana Nicotera, and the Family of Mary Ritz
