A Story of Connection, Care, and Going the Extra Mile at Ecumen Detroit Lakes

At Ecumen, we believe that a senior living community is more than just a place to live. It is where stories unfold, connections are rekindled, and meaningful moments happen every day. A recent move-in at The Madison at Ecumen Detroit Lakes is a perfect example of that spirit.

Fred and his wife Karen were living in Arizona when they decided it was time to return to Minnesota. Originally from Moorhead, where they lived in the 1960s, they wanted to be closer to family and find a welcoming place to call home. Unable to travel for a visit, their adult son toured The Madison, the independent living portion of the Detroit Lakes campus, on their behalf. He was impressed by the warmth of the team, the layout of the community, and the sense of home he felt right away.

To help with their decision, Charlie Newland, Ecumen Detroit Lakes Senior Living Consultant, stepped in to support the process as he does with all tours and inquiries. Knowing how important it was for Fred and Karen to feel confident about their choice from a distance, their son recorded and sent a personalized video tour of the apartment, helping bring the space to life for them while they were still in Arizona.

“Even though they were hundreds of miles away, we wanted Fred and Karen to feel like they were already part of the community,” said Newland. “Sometimes it’s those extra steps that make all the difference, and I’m grateful to have been a part of their journey back to Minnesota.”

After seeing the videos, Fred and Karen made the decision to reserve the apartment, sight unseen and without knowing anyone in the community. But what happened next was nothing short of remarkable.

Unbeknownst to them, their new apartment was right next door to John, a resident who has lived at Ecumen Detroit Lakes for the past four years. As it turns out, Fred and John were neighbors back in the 1960s in Moorhead. Not only that, but their sons had been close childhood friends. Neither family had any idea they would be reuniting all these years later, and certainly not as next-door neighbors.

This surprise reunion was a heartwarming reminder of the power of community, and it reflects the values that define life at Ecumen. It speaks to the dedication of team members like Charlie, who go above and beyond to make every family feel supported. And it celebrates the kind of meaningful connections that make The Madison feel like home. 

We are thrilled to welcome Fred and Karen back to Minnesota, and even more thrilled to see their story come full circle in such an unforgettable way.