A LIFE IN MOTION
games and brings so much joy to everyone,” Ellen said. Even in this new chapter, Mark’s rowing spirit remains. His physical therapist often used rowing commands like “Power Ten” to push through therapy sessions. “It’s a little thing, but it keeps Mark connected to that part of himself,” his wife explains. Though their rowing days are behind them, their love for the sport, movement, and each other continues. “Rowing taught Mark discipline and endurance, but it also gave him peace,” she reflects. “When you’re on the water, it’s quiet. It’s just you and the rhythm of the oars. That’s what he loved most.” Now, in a place where comfort and care come first, that sense of peace and rhythm remains; this time, in the steady support of a community that truly feels like home.
stay engaged in the outdoors. As Mark’s mobility declined, they focused on finding the proper care. They originally booked a respite care stay at Victorian Village and loved it. After a short hospital stay, Mark entered the Rehabilitation unit. They explored other options, but this quickly became their community of
were out walking, hiking, and staying active in their tight- knit community. When Mark’s condition began to change, they began their search for a ranch- style home, a style that is almost impossible to find in Pittsburgh. “We lived in a three-story house typical for Pittsburgh, but it just wasn’t practical anymore,”
choice. They put down a deposit for an Assisted Living apartment. His decline necessitated Mark’s move to Skilled Nursing in the Small House, a decision that, in retrospect, worked out for the better. From the moment we walked in, it didn’t
“When you’re on the water, it’s quiet. It’s just you and the rhythm of the oars. That’s what he loved most.”
feel like an institution—it felt like home,” she says. “It’s where family visits aren’t just welcomed; they’re embraced. We can celebrate birthdays, watch movies together, and be ourselves.” The staff and residents have become an extended family, and their 3-year-old grandchild, Daniel, has become a local favorite. Charming everyone with his energy and curiosity, he plays
Ellen explains. Their daughter, who lived near Victorian Village, sent them a listing for a house in the Chicago suburbs, and it felt like fate. “It checked every box. We saw it in December 2020 and moved in February 2021, in the middle of a pandemic and a 20-inch snowstorm.” Even after relocating to Illinois, Mark and his wife sought out walking groups and ways to
Issue No. 1 • 2025 | Providencelifeservices.com 21
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