For the Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD – Stoney River will host a St. Patrick’s Day-themed, seventh anniversary for the Memory Café, with painting party “shenanigans” on March 9, 10:30 a.m. – noon at Wesley United Methodist Church, 211 S. Maple Ave., Marshfield.

After creating masterpieces to take home, guests will enjoy a complimentary hot, Irish-inspired lunch and time to relax and talk with others who “understand the rewards and challenges of caregiving.”

“Stoney River’s Memory Support team feels fortunate to be celebrating seven years of hosting Memory Cafes in partnership with Marshfield Area Respite Care Center and United Way to provide a space for those dealing with memory loss and their care partners to learn, laugh and unwind,” a Stoney River release stated.

“There is a lot of talking, laughing and even crying that goes on at our Memory Cafés with little concern about feeling embarrassed or misunderstood, because everyone is in the same boat,” says Stoney River’s Memory Support Manager Lizz Richards, LPN. “Many participants tell us that this ‘lunch date’ is a freeing and joyful experience and that they look forward to regularly attending.”

Marshfield Area Respite Care Center Director Marilyn Seidl-Kramer adds, “Memory Café is an opportunity for the caregiver to continue to be involved in the community and make new memories with their family member.”

Over seven years, Richards estimates that hundreds of people from Marshfield and surrounding areas have attended and benefited from Stoney River’s monthly Memory Café.

“Caregivers and their loved ones find support, guidance and good times at our Memory Café,” says Richards, adding that Stoney River further supports family caregivers by offering free dementia resource kits that include a tip sheet, guidebook and special gift. Stoney River’s Dementia Resource Kits are available by request at 715-207-6423.

Stoney River Marshfield offers assisted living, located at 1204 W. McMillan St., Marshfield, and memory support, located down the street at 1609 W. St. Joseph Ave.

Reserve your spot for March 9 by calling 715-207-6423.