The Ones We Care For: What They Want Us to Know with the Residents of the Trails of Orono

The Ones We Care For: What They Want Us to Know with the Residents of the Trails of Orono

What if the people we care for had the microphone? What if—before we create another policy, schedule a medication, or make assumptions about what’s “best”—we paused and simply asked: What do you want? How does this feel? What matters most to you today? In a world where caregiving often centers on doing for, we sometimes forget the power of simply being with. This episode is an invitation to slow down and listen to the voices that often go unheard—the ones on the receiving care.

Today, I’m sharing a conversation that is deeply personal and one that I've been wanting to have for some time. I sat down with four incredible residents from the Trails of Orono, an Ebenezer assisted living community. Mike D is 88 and carries stories from a rich life full of meaning. Gary J, who just turned 86 on March 30th, brings warmth and wisdom to every word. Marie H celebrated her 103rd birthday on March 27th—yes, 103!—and Lucia A, at 93, offers reflections that are both grounded and generous. These conversations aren't about statistics or systems. They're about humanity—what it feels like to age, to receive care, to be seen, to be missed, to be remembered.

You’ll hear about their life, what brings them joy, how they feel well cared for and what it feels like to transition to being cared for. We talk about dignity, loss, autonomy, surprise, and love. And we ask the question at the heart of it all: How can we truly care well for people if we don’t know what they are thinking, feeling, and needing? These voices—Mike, Gary, Marie, and Lucia—are the heartbeat of this episode. It’s my hope that by listening to their stories, we’ll become better listeners, better caregivers, and better humans.

Listen to our episode HERE.

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About the Guests

Mike D: 88

Gary J: Turns 86 on 3/30

Marie H: Turns 103 on 3/27!

Lucia A: 93

Ebenezer

Ebenezer is Minnesota’s largest senior living operator and has been at the heart of aging care for over a century. As a trusted part of the Fairview Health Services family, Ebenezer provides a full spectrum of support—from independent living to memory care and skilled nursing—rooted in compassion, dignity, and connection. With a mission to help older adults live well, Ebenezer communities prioritize purpose, belonging, and quality care for every stage of life.

The Trails of Orono

Nestled in a quiet wooded setting just west of Minneapolis, The Trails of Orono is an Ebenezer community that feels like home. Offering assisted living and memory care, The Trails blends personalized support with a deep respect for independence and individuality. Residents enjoy cozy comforts, meaningful activities, and a warm, close-knit atmosphere where every voice is valued and every story matters.

Trails slogan: comfort and community at the end of the trail 

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We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

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Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.