By MARGARET BLOHM
For the Times-Herald
DEARBORN – In September, Beaumont Commons, Dearborn shared the story of resident Lillie Washington, a retired psychiatric nurse from Detroit, who always tells everyone she is “too blessed to be stressed.”
Washington also revealed that her favorite TV show is “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” While Kimmel vacationed over the summer, she complained that his guest hosts were not as funny.
To everyone’s surprise, Kimmel read the story published in a local newspaper. Kimmel’s assistant then emailed the senior living community to inquire about the best way to send a package to such an enthusiastic fan.
When Donna Brandt, sales manager for Beaumont Commons, replied to the inquiry, she also advised that Washington would be turning 95th birthday on Oct. 11.
“I could just envision what a wonderful surprise that a package from Jimmy Kimmel would be for Mrs. Washington on her birthday,” Brandt said. “She’s such a delight.”
As the senior living campus continues to follow CDC guidelines, outside visitors are not permitted, so Brandt offered to make the special birthday delivery, and Kimmel’s package arrived just in time.
When Brandt made the surprise delivery, she captured the never-to-be forgotten birthday celebration with photos and video of Washington opening Kimmel’s gift. Along with a handwritten and signed note from Kimmel were keepsakes of the TV show that included a mug, baseball cap, T-shirt and jacket.
“It only took a minute for Mrs. Washington to put on the cap and her promise to wear the T-shirt that night,” said Brandt, who then recorded a special video thank-you from Washington – now Kimmel’s biggest forever fan.