Mario’s Story

When Mario reflects on his life, one word comes to mind — community. It’s something he’s valued since his days serving in the U.S. Navy during the 1960s, and it’s something he’s found again at Lighthouse Guild’s Adult Day Health Care program, GuildCare.

Mario proudly served in the Navy, working in maintenance and learning hands-on skills that would serve him for decades to come. “There was so much camaraderie,” he recalls. “We met people from all over the world, from all different backgrounds — but we were united.” That sense of loyalty and brotherhood stayed with him long after his military service ended.

After returning home, Mario built a full and purposeful life. He worked in maintenance, carpentry, and machine shops for many years, raised four children, and now enjoys time with his grandchildren. “Family has always been the most important part of my life,” he says.

In recent years, Mario’s health needs grew more complex, including cataracts and blurry vision. His family wanted to make sure he had the support and care he needed each day, along with the social connection that had been a huge part of his life during his years of service. When Mario and one of his sons toured GuildCare, they immediately knew it was the right place. “It was so warm and friendly,” Mario says. “I knew I could be taken care of.”

Since joining GuildCare, Mario has built close relationships with fellow veterans and other participants, finding a sense of belonging that reminds him of his time in the Navy. “There are some other Navy guys, one Army guy, one Marine — and we all get along so well,” he says. “We look out for each other, we share stories, and we’ve become like brothers.”

Mario is known at GuildCare for his kindness and compassion. He checks in on others, makes sure his friends are doing well, and encourages everyone to get involved in activities. Whether he’s playing pool, singing old songs, or chatting over lunch, Mario’s warmth helps others feel at home. “I worry about everyone here because I truly love everyone,” he says. “It’s a real community, a family.”

He credits the GuildCare staff for creating an environment where participants with varying degrees of vision impairment and other health needs feel safe, supported, and valued. “Just as we served our country,” Mario says, “the staff at Lighthouse Guild serve veterans and all the wonderful people here with compassion and care.”

His family has peace of mind too knowing that Mario is safe and cared for while he’s at GuildCare. The medical monitoring, medication maintenance, and nursing were all top services that ultimately led to Mario joining the GuildCare family.

Now celebrating more than a year at GuildCare, Mario is grateful for the friendships, the laughter, and the renewed sense of purpose he’s found. “This program has helped me so much,” he reflects. “After being independent for so long, I’ve learned to trust others again, to open up, and to be part of something bigger. I’m proud to be part of this family.”