For those of you not familiar with Doug’s story, from an early age my parents became aware that he was not like other children, that he had severe cognitive disabilities now known as MR or mentally challenged, and that he would remain so for his lifetime.
During the 1940’s treatment and care was unlike raising a child today with MR , and it was particularly tough on my parents, grandparents and Doug as well. Over the years, Doug resided with his family on weekends, various hospitals and care arrangements during the week. Eventually he settled at the Templeton Developmental Center (known as TDC) and was a resident for the last 25 plus years of his life. Here, my parents and Doug found peace in terms of a good and caring environment that best suited his needs. The staff became an extended part of our family; often going the extra mile to entertain and care for Doug.
At TDC, Douglass enjoyed working at the Valley Barn feeding the cows, taking group trips to Cape Cod, Disney and of course weekend trips home. He also enjoyed the simple pleasures of roaming the picturesque campus of farm land nestled in a backdrop of mountain ranges, and walking over to the canteen with a dollar in hand for the coke machine. If coupled with snacking on his favorite Fig Newton’s that was even better! Doug often could be found hanging around with the TDC staff, and they enjoyed his company. He often walked over and hung out at the switchboard area, and found peace lying in the grass on a warm sunny day in the beautiful landscape of the grounds.
Christmas and Easter were his favorite holidays when he spent more time with his sisters, nieces and nephews, and would delight in a non-restrictive diet of chocolate, cherry pie, Fig Newton’s and Coke. And, we the family, didn’t mind spoiling him one bit!
Doug looked forward to his birthday as he knew birthday cake would be a major part of the menu. He often questioned us on when his birthday was, even though he knew, he just liked to ensure we didn’t forget. As part of this conversation we’d ask “Douglass, how old will you be?” and his response was always “29”; again knowing that not to be true, but knowing it would elicit a laugh.
Doug was very polite, and also had a good sense of humor. For example, he would often call Nancy “Sally” knowing that he’d get a rise out of her, and he succeeded every time.
Douglass had been healthy until recently when he developed digestive problems, and on March 5th suffered fatal congestive heart failure.
My sisters and I enjoyed time with Doug. He was so easy going, and enjoyed the simple things in life. In particular, we’ll miss taking him out for ice cream, car rides, the holidays, and his common questions or words “can I ask you a question”, or “can I have a coke please”. Doug’s is most known for saying “goooood” when he agreed. He often requested we play his favorite song “if I had a hammer” by Peter, Paul and Mary; this often would be replayed up to 5-10 times. Needless to say, we’ll always think of Doug whenever we hear this song. - Doug elicited the maternal instincts in us because he was in effect forever a child; requiring supervision, guidance, regular meetings with TDC staff, etc. - In essence, we have not only lost a brother but a child who’s been near and dear to our hearts and will be forever.
To our extended family at TDC, we thank you for the love, friendship and support over the past 25 plus years. To Mr. Nelson, thank you for the lifetime of devotion to Doug; he truly loved spending time with you. To Betsy Brooks, his social worker, we can’t thank you enough for everything!
In our hearts and minds, we truly believe that Douglass is at peace with our loving parents and grandparents.
On behalf of the Arnold family, we appreciate your outpour of love and support, and thank you for coming today. Peace and love be with you.
For those of you not familiar with Doug’s story, from an early age my parents became aware that he was not like other children, that he had severe cognitive disabilities now known as MR or mentally challenged, and that he would remain so for his lifetime.
During the 1940’s treatment and care was unlike raising a child today with MR , and it was particularly tough on my parents, grandparents and Doug as well. Over the years, Doug resided with his family on weekends, various hospitals and care arrangements during the week. Eventually he settled at the Templeton Developmental Center (known as TDC) and was a resident for the last 25 plus years of his life. Here, my parents and Doug found peace in terms of a good and caring environment that best suited his needs. The staff became an extended part of... READ MORE →
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March 15, 2012