I was delighted to see Madeline, a 93 year old resident of the Mansion, and Door Lisa, a staffer there, dancing to “Blue Moon” in the activity room, laughing and hugging each other. Madeline grew up in the Bronx, she was moved to an orphanage there when her brother stabbed her father to death to prevent him from harming their mother. Her mother died soon afterwards and Madeline spent much of her young life in institutions.

She is cheerful, alert and loves to sing. Every time I see her, she tells me Red’s collar is too tight.  Door Lisa loves to dance, and loves her work there.