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A Dream Comes True for Father of the Bride

August 2 , 2007

When Stanley Hollenbach heard the news that his only daughter was going to be married, the fact that he was a resident at the RiverWoods Nursing Care Center didn’t stop him from wanting to do what every father wants to do - and that is to give the bride away on the most memorable day of her life.

Mr. Hollenbach mentioned to his social worker, Dawn Martina that his daughter was getting married and he sure would like to be there, but he didn’t know how it would be possible.  As many of the caring staff do when a resident asks for something, Ms. Martina immediately went to work to see if his wish could be granted.  Within a matter of weeks, plans began to unfold as to how this could be done.  Many details had to be worked out: Stanley’s clothing choices; whether or not he would be physically able to withstand the drive to Beavertown, PA; who would drive him there; who would escort him; and since Stanley uses an oxygen tank, the staff had to make sure he would have enough to last.

Finally, the day had come!  The nursing staff had Stanley dressed from head to toe, and he looked very handsome.  David Mitchley, Director of Environmental Services, offered to drive the RiverWoods bus, and Dawn Martina and a nurse accompanied him to the wedding, which was held at the God’s Missionary Church in Beavertown.  As Stanley entered the church, he was greeted by his wife, Gail, and other family members and friends.  All were thrilled to see him there.

Stanley’s oldest son, David, escorted his daughter, Mary, down the aisle.  When the preacher asked the question, “who gives this woman to be with this man,” Stanley proudly said, “her mother and I,” with tears in his eyes.  After the ceremony, Stanley returned to the Nursing Care Center and commented to the staff of his daughter’s wedding, “My dreams came true.  On a scale of 1 to 10, I’d give it a 12.”

Two weeks after the wedding, Stanley still talks about the wedding and proudly shows off the wedding album to anyone who wants to see it.