Edie Sadewitz

When she moved into the Jewish Home on April 1, 2003 (no fooling!), Edie Sadewitz was looking for a place where she would feel comfortable and secure; she didn't expect her new life to be so gratifying.

Despite a strong cultural identification with Judaism, Edie had never been formally active in a synagogue congregation, but is now excited to discover a burgeoning interest in religious studies. Besides becoming a regular participant at the Home's Shabbat services, Edie attends Rabbi Marder's weekly Bible classes, which she describes as “really absorbing.” One of her favorite activities is the “Psalms, Songs and Stories” songwriting group, involving the study and discussion of psalms, which are then put to music.

Edie masters improv and acts "like a nut" at the weekly comedy clinic.

Through the Home's participation in the Fromm Institute’s adult education program, Edie joins other students for a variety of courses. And without having to leave the Jewish Home’s campus, Edie was able to realize one of her long-time goals: becoming computer literate, thanks to tutoring sessions offered by staff and volunteers of the Jewish Home.

Edie indulges her lighter side by calling bingo games several times a week, and also took part in the Kung Pao Kosher Comedy clinic, which paired professional comedians with Jewish Home residents to explore the finer points of Jewish comedy. “The clinic touched my heart strings. I lost a lot of my inhibitions. I made a fool of myself but I loved every minute of it.”

Currently serving as president of the Home's Council of Residents, Edie lauds the spirit of community she has found at the Home. “I'm so encouraged by the people here – so much warmth has been shown toward me.”

She credits the Jewish Home staff for the quality of personal care given to the residents. “They see us as more than a medical chart. We're people to them. Four hundred and thirty people with 430 life stories.”