Wishes Granted


Reunited with Church Family

Bowling

Ina Bowling, 84, from Earle, Arkansas, came to the Ave Maria Assisted-Living Nursing Home in Bartlett a year ago. Being a member of Earle Baptist Church for over 60 years, Ina found it difficult to be away from her friends for so long, and not being able to travel was disappointing. Ave Maria contacted Forever Young and asked if Ina's wish of being reunited with her church family could come true. Diane contacted Mrs. Bowling's pastor, Dr. Steven Bailey, and he graciously agreed to bring a group of church members to visit, and like old times, participate in a worship service.

David Abernathy, Olive Garden manager, donated a wonderful meal for Ina and 25 of her close friends to enjoy in a "sweetheart banquet" setting decorated by the activity director, Deborah Thomas. It was so much fun to watch Ina talking and laughing as she reminisced with everyone. She was so happy. The ladies from her Sunday school class were also there, and as one of them said, "This wish meant as much to us as it did to her. We love her so much."

Back to Top