OPEN FORUM EDITORIAL

DEATH

At Anam Chara, a different outlook

I would like to share my experience about a true gem in our community.

This gem comes in the form of a home. This home is much like many homes in Boulder. It is filled with people who love and care for one another, who share meals and stories together. There are two dogs, a cat, a porch where one can sit and look out at the waterfall and beautiful flowers.

The difference at this home is who lives there. Living there are eight people over the age of 65, and the angels who come and go to provide them with all that they need to stay a part of the community. This home is Anam Chara, located in a north
Boulder neighborhood.

Anam Chara is a residential home for the elderly, providing care to older people with all types of needs, people who would otherwise require care in facilities such as nursing homes, or locked Alzheimer's units.

My grandmother, Margaret “Kiki” Franklin was, until her peaceful death at home at the age of 93, part of the Anam Chara family. I cannot say enough about the amazing care she received while living the past three years. Despite the fact that both her mind and body continued to deteriorate, there was never any question that she would remain at Anam Chara until the day she died. When she did die on May 15, she did so very quickly, surrounded by loving caregivers saying with her the prayers that meant so much to her. The support and assistance given to our family during this difficult time by the staff has been amazing. The founder of the home, Peggy Quinn, sat with my parents for several hours offering love, support and compassion, all in the presence of my grandmother's body.

Death is seen very differently at Anam Chara: It is not something to be feared. Rather, the life is celebrated. Our family is so fortunate to have found such a wonderful place for Kiki. What a stark contrast to the way so many elderly people spend their last years. There truly is an alternative. Thank you, Anam Chara home.

Michelle Franklin Brandon and family

From the Daily Camera of Boulder CO, May 24, 2004, Editorial Open Forum page.