Marny Smith, second from left, at the Maine Health Care Association “Remember ME” ceremony in Augusta, Maine, with (L-R) daughter Jen; Katy Smith, vice president of assisted living for Avesta Housing; and son Ed.
Marny Smith, a resident of 75 State Street, was one of 32 people honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Maine Health Care Association (MHCA) during its “Remember ME” ceremony on May 22 at the Augusta Civic Center.
The ceremony marked the 22nd annual celebration of “Remember ME,” a photography exhibit which features black-and-white photographs and biographies of residents living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities statewide. Its primary purpose is to salute the people who have spent their lives supporting their families, building their communities, and serving their state and country. The residents, who range in age from 54 to 102, are decorated war heroes, mothers and fathers, and community leaders such as nurses, teachers, activists, and small business owners.
Marny has spent a lifetime working for issues that mattered in the local community and around the globe as an environmental activist, advocate for children with mental health issues, spokesperson for the Department of Environmental Protection, director of development at Connecticut Audubon, recycling coordinator in Darien, Conn., and much more. Now in her 90s, she is newly settled at 75 State Street, where she continues to nurture friendships and promote community.
75 State Street is an Avesta Housing property that provides long-term independent living and assisted living for older adults in downtown Portland. “I am humbled by the amazing lives of older adults and am grateful that Marny Smith resides at 75 State Street,” said Katy Smith, vice president of senior living for Avesta Housing.
“Remember ME” also urges the public, including lawmakers, to remember the selfless contributions of our older and disabled citizens who now depend on others for their care and safety.
“Each of today’s honorees had made remarkable contributions to their community,” said MHCA President & CEO Angela Westhoff. “After giving to others for much of their lives, they now depend on us for their daily medical and social care, and we take that responsibility very seriously. This recognition ceremony is our tribute to their years of hard work.”
Since its inception, the “Remember ME” program has recognized over 765 long-term care residents statewide. Click here to view the list of this year’s honorees.
