Vet donates flag to hospital, a 'thank you' for parents' anniversary soiree

Ormond Beach Observer
Neighbors

An Ormond Beach man was hospitalized on his wedding anniversary, but he and his wife were still given a romantic dinner celebration, thanks to the hospital staff.

BY THE OBSERVER STAFF

Retired fighter pilot Ron Lesch visited Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center July 1 with an American flag signed by him and his four-person crew, as thanks for the treatment hospital workers gave to his parents on their 64th wedding anniversary last year.

Lesch’s father, Ormond Beach’s Greg Lesch, was admitted into the hospital’s medical progressive care unit July 3, 2012, which was he and his wife, Pat’s, 64^th anniversary. When staff found out about the special day, however, they prepared a steak dinner celebration for the couple, complete with a tablecloth, real china and sparkling cider.

“It definitely made an impact on my parents,” Ron Lesch said. “It took them by complete surprise. ... Knowing a place like this exists with such caring medical caregivers, I feel pretty comfortable (my parents) will be well cared for while I’m on the other side of the world.”

Lesch was in Afghanistan for his parents’ anniversary last year, and the flag he donated was flown on a combat mission in Afghanistan. He returned to Afghanistan July 5, on a several months-long mission.

Sacred Spirit performs for Alzheimer's patients

Rose Fauci and Jane Paulsen, of Sacred Spirit Dance Troupe, stopped by Season's by Riveria, at 515 Tomoka Ave., Saturday, June 29, to put on a show for residents.

“Sacred Spirit of Dance Express Productions visits local area nursing homes on a regular basis to spread a little good cheer,” Fauci said. “We love our seniors!”