To fulfill a dream could mean to check off a box on a bucket list, reconnect with long lost family members or for Catherine a walk down memory lane.
Catherine’s family owned and trained many racehorses that competed at Aksarben, Horseman’s and Fonner Park in Nebraska and many other tracks in the Midwest. She later inherited the family business and saw much success. She remembers spending many moments in the winner’s circle with her horse and jockey. She not only took care of racehorses, but also was a hairdresser. Her granddaughter, Laura, says, she was a busy lady, that’s how she liked it! When she retired, her son took her weekly to watch simulcast races at Horseman’s Park. With her declining health, it has been over a year since has watched a race.
Tiffany from AseraCare Hospice nominated Catherine to receive a dream from the Dreamweaver Foundation because of Catherine’s sweet and delightful personality; she wanted to give her a chance to see one more horserace. Dreamweaver Foundation partnered with Horseman’s Park to make this happen.
On a Saturday morning in December, Midwest Transport escorted Catherine and her son from Crowell Home in Blair to Horseman’s Park. Catherine was welcomed to Horseman’s by nearly 20 family members and her favorite hospice nurse, Nancy. They enjoyed time reminiscing about the good ole days at Aksarben, betting on their favorite horses and playing cards in between races; turns out Catherine was quite the card player years ago!
Horseman’s Park went over and beyond to ensure Catherine and her family had a great time. The waitress, Alicia, was so touched by Catherine and her story, she bought a Horseman’s Park sweatshirt for Catherine to remember her visit.
“What a blessing”. “She is very thankful”, Laura told us. Dreamweaver Foundation was honored to fulfill Catherine’s Dream.
We want to thank our partners for helping us make this happen; Horseman’s Park, Midwest Medical, Crowell Home and AseraCare Hospice.