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March 24, 2021After almost a year of being quarantined, Saint Ann Retirement Center in Oklahoma City reopened March 14 for family members to return to the community and visit loved ones.
“It was so wonderful to see my sister,” said Karen Whaylen, a resident in Independent Living and a member of Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church for more than 60 years.
Her sister, Debbie Gorden, also a member of Saint Charles, brought flowers to present to Karen.
“It was such a gift to see my sister after many months of quarantine. I was able to see her apartment for the first time.”
Many of the residents, including 102-year-old Kathleen Sodowski, are looking forward to visits from their children, grandchildren and friends. Sodowski always brags about Saint Ann and is very active in Independent Living.
“I am so pleased that we have opened up again. This gives me the opportunity to come and go as I please and enjoy my family again.”
Residents also returned to Saint Joachim Chapel at Saint Ann with help from Father Michael Chapman, Father Paul Kodakarakaran and Father Price Grimes. Many Catholics said they come to Saint Ann because of the beautiful chapel.
Saint Ann also has restarted an All-Faith Service on Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. Although family members are not able to attend services or lunches at this time, the community is hopeful that those opportunities will return soon.
During the pandemic year, staff and residents were still able to provide small group exercise classes, celebrate special occasions and visit each other using safety protocol.
For more information about available apartments in Independent and Assisted Living, contact Bridget or Richard at (405) 721-0747. Find more online at saintannretirementcenter.com.
Photo: Kathleen Sodowski, 102 years old, celebrates the reopening at St. Ann Retirement Center. Photo provided.
