To say Memory Care Unit housekeeper Maria Pedrak digs her job is an understatement. Just ask her — she’ll tell you how much she enjoys her work. One aspect of her role in MCU that she particularly loves is that of resident gardener. Digging in the MCU courtyard soil is anything but toil for Maria, who says she also has a beautiful garden at home.
“It is my relaxation,” she says of gardening. “It’s a hobby that I really enjoy very much.”
The Cleveland resident's dedication to the residents’ living environment, and to the beautification of The Village at Marymount, was the impetus to her winning the May 2013 Franciscan Spirit Award winner.
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In addition to Maria, Environmental Services team members Calvin Lee, Tanya Johnson, and Irena Zielinski received consideration for this award.
“Maria is very deserving of this award,” said Bill Lemanowicz, her supervisor and Director of Environmental Services.
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Maria often can be seen helping MCU residents plant flowers and vegetables in the courtyard. In past years she has brought peonies and other flowers from home for residents to plant outside of MCU. In addition to her gardening, Maria helps residents with sewing, and she takes unused toys and sends them to an organization in Poland for underprivileged children.
It may seem quite contrary, but ask Maria how her garden grows and her response most likely will be a rosy one.