By Mike Murabito, Digital Marketing Manager, UMC
Originally published in UMC's engage! Magazine.
Throughout senior living and home care, especially between caregivers and those they support, friendship can quietly blossom in everyday moments. However, every so often, something more lasting takes root — a bond that begins in service and grows into something far deeper.
That’s exactly what I discovered as I sat down with Irene Freeman, a Collingswood Manor resident and HomeWorks client, and her trusted HomeWorks Companion, Doreen Taylor.
Within just the first few minutes, it quickly became clear this wasn’t your typical client-caregiver relationship. Irene instinctively looked towards Doreen before answering my questions, as if her presence was essential to the story being told. Doreen responded in kind — gently straightening Irene’s sweater, reaching for her hand without hesitation, the kind of quiet, protective gestures that require no words. Their ease with one another was unmistakable.
When Irene first moved into Collingswood Manor, Doreen supported her as an employee of a different home care agency. After Doreen became a member of the HomeWorks team, the two were separated for about six months while Irene remained with her previous agency.
But something didn’t feel right.
“She wasn’t happy,” Doreen recalled. At Irene’s request, the two were ultimately reunited, and picked up right where they left off.
Their strong emotional bond shows in the little things — like their salon days every two weeks, when Doreen does Irene’s nails, or even a leisurely trip to a nearby park.
Over time, these two women have connected over many aspects of life, including deep personal loss. While they don’t dwell on it, their understanding sometimes goes unsaid.
“I don’t just say I know how you feel,” Doreen said emphatically. “I’ve been there.”
Before they left to enjoy a lovely Friday lunch together, and in between many laughs, smiles, and tears, Irene made it clear that her feelings for Doreen go beyond the usual client-caregiver dynamic.
“It’s more than a friendship for me,” Irene said, misty-eyed, as Doreen gently put her arm on her shoulder, offering a warm smile.
But what stood out most in our time together was how often one word came up when they spoke about each other.
“She’s family,” Doreen beamed.
