When 17-year-old volunteer Mallory walked into Irmagard's room with a guitar case in her hand, neither of them knew just how special the next hour would be.
Irmagard, a patient with Suncoast Hospice, was turning 100. Born in Germany she moved to the U.S. after marrying a man in the U.S. Army. We couldn't let her birthday come and go without a treat from our Party Pals program—a way to celebrate milestone moments and bring a little extra joy to those in our care.
Mallory and her Volunteer Coordinator, Krizia, arrived with a blanket, a birthday crown, a soft teddy bear, and one more gift that couldn't be wrapped: music. She sang "Happy Birthday" and a Taylor Swift song and the room lit up.
"I've never had a birthday like this before," Irmagard told us, smiling beneath her crown.
Grace Wilson, the social worker for Irmagard's care team joined the celebration. As the conversation flowed, so did laughter. When Grace asked if Irmagard was going to play bingo later, Irmagard replied, "No. BINGO is for dummies."
Irmagard also shared about her life in Germany and her move to the U.S. Mallory asked for advice as she prepares for her senior year of high school. Without missing a beat, Irmagard said, "Don't be in a rush."
Mallory, who is exploring colleges and considering a future in service, left that visit with more than a story. She left with wisdom, laughter, and a reminder of the lasting impact of simply showing up and sharing your talents.
This is what Full Life Care looks (and sometimes sounds) like—connecting generations, honoring legacies, and making room for joy at every age.
Learn more about our volunteer program here.