An Uncommon Valentine

A Mother’s Treasure is her Daughter ~ Catherine Pulsifer

Irene and Ruth Hornack are a unique Valentine couple at Juniper Village at Brookline, and at most Independent Living communities. Their relationship far surpasses any married couple within Juniper Village, as they are mother and daughter. Having never lived apart, Ruth shares about her and her mother, “we manage to get along.” Irene, age 98, says that Ruth is “very helpful” and often assists Irene with daily tasks such as meal preparation and going to appointments. The couple feels that they support each other and are always together. “Oh we have disagreements but that’s life,” says Irene about their close relationship. Both shared that they feel lucky to have each other. Their family unit is strong as evidenced by pictures throughout their apartment of Irene’s husband, who died in 2000, and her son who passed at the age of 47. Irene also expressed relief in knowing that when she is no longer able to reside with Ruth, that Ruth “will be well taken care of.” The two of them share their apartment with their cat, Rosie.

 

(Pictures: Ruth and Irene Hornack taken days ago; Irene’s son in the airplane; Irene and her husband with a family friend at a graduation)