Now that a friend is sending this for me, as I don’t have email, I have the opportunity to share what I am feeling for the Friendship Center. Not only does the center benefit my husband, Andy, but it has made me a whole person again. An added bonus is that because Andy is a United States veteran, he attends the Friendship Center for free, with the Veterans Administration paying the bill.

It was unfortunate that Andy had a stroke shortly after we retired; we could have enjoyed ourselves for a short while before getting too old. I cared for him a couple of years and then myself was stricken with ovarian cancer. Thank God I survived my misfortune and thank God the Friendship Center came to Andy’s aid.

My husband is brought to the Friendship Center by Easy Lift, and receives a nourishing breakfast, lunch, and snack on the five days each week that he attends. He participates in all activities and enjoys guests that arrive to entertain the members at this wonderful day care program. Andy awaits each morning to go to the center, and wants to go back some evenings!

When he arrives home, I find Andy more alert and more aware of our lifestyle in our own surroundings. Weekends, after being home all day, it is difficult to communicate and get him to comprehend most of what I’m saying and wanting him to do for himself.

The time he spends at the Friendship Center is a godsend for Andy and I am able to live a normal, relaxed, and stress-free time. I can watch shows, cook, get my nails manicured, and have lunch with family and friends.

If you want to meet the most dedicated, compassionate, and knowledgeable staff members, drive to Montecito and visit the Friendship Center. Staff will advise families on all matters concerning their older loved ones.

After 56 years of marriage, I can honestly say that I put my husband Andy in the best hands available to me. What’s great is that I still get to be with him at night, while he is cared for by professionals during the day. Thank you, Friendship Center!

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