Dorothy Stern

At 6 months of age, Dorothy became critically ill with bronchitis. Her parents brought her to Letchworth Developmental Center on 11/25/36 at age 4 and said she was mentally defective prior to age 2. Dorothy functions in the profound range of disablilty, otherwise known as low grade imbecile. She is legally blind and uses a wheelchair for transort and outings. She wears custom molded shoes and can use a rolling walker when chooses to if she has assistance. Meals are pureed and thickened and requires supervision during meals. At night she was checked hourly.

Dorothy lived her life under the protection and support of the State of New York. Her last place of residence was at the Black Street ICF which is in Gloversville, NY.

According to her profile from Gloversville, Dorothy was a charming, easy-going 72 year old woman. She understands a lot of what people are expressing to her such as the meaning of no, and labels and functions of common objects. She can understand and follow one-step directions. Dorothy is non-verbal and relies upon staff to anticipate her wants and needs. She loves to look nice and loves to get her nails and hair done, especially her nails. She helps set the table and helps prepare her lunch and do laundry. She loves to go to outings for musical events, art exhibits, etc. She loves to get her nails done. She attends Jewish holiday services.

She LOVES to get her nails done!!!

Grete Mihlsten and Fran Mizrany found Dorothy after many years and started becoming reacquainted before Dorothy died. She seemed to enjoy keeping in contact with her new found family.