Decades ago, within the bustling corridors of Bethesda General Hospital, Sandy Brown and Sally Sharamitaro (L-R in featured image above) forged a workplace bond from 1993 to 1999. Their connection endured beyond their tenure, strengthened by regular lunches and shared rounds of golf. Unbeknownst to each other, however, their paths would cross again during the next chapter of their lives.
It was during a lunch meet-up last fall that Sally, who had served as the hospital’s Director of Medical Records, mentioned Bethesda Orchard in Webster Groves as a retirement community she was interested in pursuing. Sandy, who was the hospital’s Laboratory Director, and was also in the market for a retirement community, added Bethesda Orchard to her list of possibilities and booked a tour with her brother.
“My brother is very particular, and he was very impressed with the accommodations and recommended I jump on it,” Sandy says. “My sister-in-law even said she would take it if I didn’t. It all happened very fast.” Sally just happened to have some trips planned. When she returned from her travels, she began her move-in process at Bethesda Orchard, and was very pleased, and quite surprised, to discover that Sandy had already moved in!
“I mentioned that I had a friend who was looking to move to a community and that she might be reaching out,” says Sally. “Todd, the General Manager, said, ‘You mean Sandy Brown? She moved in before the holiday.’”
“Surprise!” Sandy laughed when she met up with Sally.
The pair, now reunited, savor the past, recalling the intimate work environment and festive Christmas parties at the Washington University Whittemore House. They continue to make new memories, meeting for brunch every Sunday and partaking in the community’s lively activities. While Sandy has wholeheartedly embraced activities such as happy hours and Scrabble games, Sally enjoys more reflective time and has recently found fellowship in a book club.
They both speak fondly of the balance Bethesda Orchard has provided to them. They like that residents can live their independent lives, and yet they never have to worry about household chores like cooking or cleaning anymore.
Their story reflects the resilience of friendships and the comfort of familiar surroundings. Bethesda, once a place of work, now serves as a backdrop to their shared retirement, proving that some bonds, just like places, stand the test of time.
“Our years at Bethesda Hospital, it felt like being with family,” Sally says. “And I get that same feeling here at Orchard as a resident.”
Sandy agrees. “Working for Bethesda and moving to Orchard were both great decisions. I enjoy it more and more every day.”
