07/25/2026
What happens when an Elder Wish begins with a simple idea from two caring therapy team members? A morning filled with smiles, happy tears, and memories that will be treasured forever. 💕🐻
Our newest Elder Wish took a little extra planning and coordination, but every moment was worth it! This special wish was inspired by two of our amazing therapy team members, Kami Mastropoll, COTA, and Jessie Tripp, PTA. Their compassion and creativity helped make this dream come true for not one, but two very special residents. Kudos to these wonderful ladies for helping us create yet another unforgettable Elder Wish experience!
As you know, we love sharing the story behind each wish.
Connie’s Story 💗🐰
Connie is one of our original three residents who has called Springtown Park home since the day we opened. Throughout her life, she has faced many medical challenges, but she has always carried a special treasure close to her heart.
When she was younger, a dear friend who cared deeply for her gave her a stuffed bear with a recording of his voice inside so she would always have a reminder of his love and friendship. Over the years, that precious bear traveled everywhere with Connie, was by her side during medical procedures and received countless hugs. Eventually, time took its toll, and the voice recording no longer worked. Although other stuffed animals came and went, none could replace the comfort and memories that beloved bear held.
Through this Elder Wish, Connie was able to visit the Build-A-Bear Workshop at Hulen Mall to choose a brand-new forever friend. With the help of her loving sister, Christina, she selected a heart to place inside before lovingly choosing a beautiful pink bunny. Watching Connie bring her new companion to life was truly heartwarming.
Deanna’s Story 🤘🧸
Our second recipient, Deanna, has a youthful spirit that shines through her sweet smile and contagious laughter. Although she is hearing impaired, she has formed a wonderful bond with Kami and Jessie, who have been learning sign language to better communicate with her.
Deanna has always loved stuffed animals that bring her comfort and joy. During therapy sessions, Kami and Jessie prepared her for this special outing, building excitement each day as they counted down to her visit. Once inside Build-A-Bear, Deanna carefully looked at every furry friend available for adoption. Being a true Texas Longhorn fan, there was never really any doubt which one she would choose! She proudly selected a Longhorn and dressed it in Texas apparel. The joy on her face absolutely melted our hearts, and we know you’ll see it in every photo.
Of course, no celebration would be complete without pizza, so everyone gathered afterward in the food court to celebrate a wonderful morning together.
A special thank you goes to our Administrator, Jim, who admitted that a trip to the mall with a group of ladies wasn’t exactly in his comfort zone! 😂 But, like always, he was a great sport and quickly realized this outing was about so much more than shopping. It was about giving two deserving residents the opportunity to experience the joy of being out in the community and returning home with a new cherished friend.
These moments are exactly what our Elder Wish Program is all about—creating meaningful experiences, honoring treasured memories, and reminding our residents that dreams are never too small or too old to come true. ❤️
