A Legacy of Love: Peter Paolini’s Family Shares Gratitude for His Care

Peter Paolini was the beloved baby of the Paolini family of six siblings. “He was my soul brother,” says his sister, Francine. “Our connection was so tight and loving. We grew up in a loud, Italian family, quick-witted with a lot of humor in our house. He was mischievous, a true extrovert who loved meeting and being around people.”

At the age of 30, Peter was diagnosed with benign brain tumors and had his first of many surgeries. Still, he completed his master’s degree in library science and became a librarian like his sister, Francine. “You have to know a little bit about a lot of things as a librarian,” says Francine. “His brain was like the best computer you would ever own.”

Eventually, Peter’s brain tumors affected his ability to walk. Following his last surgery in 2015, Peter moved to Porter Hills Village at just 55 years old.

“Peter lived in the Porter Hills Village Health Center for ten years,” says Nicole Maag, Chief of Residential Services for Brio Living Services. “He may be the youngest and the longest-served resident we have cared for in long-term care.”

Francine says it took Peter a little while to settle in but, eventually, he started really getting to know the nurses and care team. “So many nurses there are spectacular people,” Francine says. “He would yell when he was in pain, sometimes emotional pain. The caregivers started to understand how to be a ‘Peter Whisperer.’ They made him feel seen.”

Peter passed away in July at the age of 65, surrounded by family and caregivers. “When he died, his caregivers were really grieving for him,” remembers Francine. “Our family marveled at the beautiful energy they brought to the room.”

Francine is especially grateful for Peter’s caregivers who included Blessing Kafulani, Kourtney Whipple, Jessica Mays, and Cassy DeMoss to name just a few of the Porter Hills Village Health Center’s dedicated team members. “Our family remarked that we had never seen anything like this. We are touched by their support and kindness. This legacy of love is so uplifting for our family to see.”

Learn more about the variety of retirement options that Brio Living Services has to offer, or how you can become one of Brio’s dedicated, caring team members.

This blog is sponsored by Chelsea Lumber Company, a Live Life with Brio Bronze Sponsor! Your thoughtful gift brings joy to the older adults we serve and our team members.