Fort Kent ~ Finding himself in the hospital, Elmer Daigle was saddened when he realized he would not be home to celebrate an upcoming milestone in his life –celebrating his wedding anniversary with the love of his life, Jackie. Previous to this hospitalization, Mr. Daigle was receiving rehabilitation at a local healthcare facility where the staff and son, Michael, had planned a celebration. With the change in his condition, the celebration had to be cancelled. Because Elmer was hospitalized, Jackie and Elmer Daigle of Frenchville thought their fortieth wedding anniversary would go unnoticed. Not new to dealing with chronic health issues, the couple has learned to treasure each special moment they have together no matter where they are.
The staff at Northern Maine Medical Center, however, had other plans in mind for the couple. Secretly, the healthcare team on duty that Saturday was determined to help the Daigles celebrate what is important in life. This was not the first time the staff had encountered such a thing; in a short amount of time, the staff was able to stage a memorable anniversary celebration for the loving couple.
When Jackie arrived for her daily visit with her husband that afternoon, the staff, as a group, entered the patient’s room with roses, balloons and a gift basket. Once the anniversary wishes were shared, a dry eye in the room could not be found. Photographs were taken to capture the moment and they can be viewed at www.facebook.com/northernmainemedicalcenter.
Now discharged from the hospital, the journey to recovery continues for the family. Mrs. Daigle said, “My son, Michael is an angel. I couldn’t do this without his help.” The couple has three sons, but only one of them lives nearby. The family plans to celebrate Christmas together at home despite the challenges they continue to face.
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