When Praha Village’s first resident passed away, her loved ones knew just how they wanted to memorialize her. Mary Proshek’s family donated an outdoor glider to the senior living community in New Prague, MN.

Bearing the inscription “In Loving Memory of Mary Proshek, First Resident of Praha Village,” the glider honors Mary, who lived in the community for three years.

“That was the memorial they wanted to leave here in memory of their loved one for the residents to enjoy,” says Tammy Hase, executive director of Praha Village.

And, the residents certainly have enjoyed the glider with two seats and a table in between them.

“Residents were almost racing out there to get a seat,” Tammy says.

When resident Marcia Leverson passed away, her family asked that funeral memorials benefit Praha Village.

“That’s the first time that’s ever happened here,” Tammy says.

Because the first glider was so popular, Praha Village decided to use the funds to add a second glider with an inscription honoring Marcia.

“We found it to be a nice memorial, memorializing the residents, and I think it was comforting to the families,” Tammy says. “Their legacies are still living on here.”

Honored to Receive Donations

Praha Village staff is appreciative of the support from Mary’s and Marcia’s families.

“We were just honored that they were so happy with Mary’s residency here,” Tammy says of the first donation.

She says she believes the families chose to support Praha because of the support the community provided for their loved ones as they moved from independent living to assisted living.

“Both families were so extremely grateful for the care,” Tammy says. “Both (Mary and Marcia) started out independently and were able to stay here and receive the care they needed until end of life. I think (the families) were extremely pleased with the staff, very close with the staff, very grateful that (Mary and Marcia) were able to get the care they needed and stay where they considered it to be home.”

Enhancing Quality of Life for Residents

In addition to purchasing the glider in Marcia’s memory, Praha Village also purchased shepherd’s hooks and birdfeeders for the memory care garden with memorial funds. It’s just another way to help residents enjoy living at Praha Village.

As for the gliders, they remain popular amongst the residents.

“They are very comfortable; they’re very easy,” Tammy says. “The residents like the swaying capability. It’s very soothing and relaxing … It definitely has become the seating area of choice out there.”

Residents are able to enjoy the outdoors more due to the thoughtful memorial donations Praha Village received. That brings happiness to everyone.

“We all love to see it,” Tammy says. “If there’s one thing we want to encourage around here, it’s getting out, enjoying social activity, enjoying each other’s company. This has created a really nice, comfortable place for them to do just that right at our front door.”