On June 19, The Shores came together for a day filled with color, connection, and reflection — our Memory Balloon Day, inspired by the children’s book The Remember Balloons.
If you’re not familiar with the story, The Remember Balloons by Jessie Oliveros uses a simple but powerful idea: our memories are like balloons we carry with us throughout life. Some are bright and new, others older and more fragile. And for those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, those balloons can slowly drift away.
It’s a gentle way to explain something that can feel anything but gentle, and it gave us the perfect starting point for a meaningful day.
Throughout the community, residents and team members had the chance to experience that message in creative, hands-on ways. A highlight of the day was a visit from Rudy, a balloon artist with Lucky Duck Entertainment, who filled rooms with laughter and balloon art.
From butterflies and flowers to monkeys, dogs, and cats, his creations brought out smiles and sparked conversation.
We were also fortunate to have a young volunteer, Molly, spend time reading The Remember Balloons to residents. Her presence added intergenerational moments that reminded us how stories can help us connect, understand, and exude happiness with one another.
All month long, a “Memory Balloon Wall” has been on display at The Shores, a growing collection of handwritten memories shared by residents, loved ones, and team members. Each balloon holds a moment: a favorite vacation, a family tradition, a simple joy. Together, they create a powerful picture of lives well-lived.
At The Shores, Memory Balloon Day was a reminder to meet each person where they are, to celebrate what they carry with them, and to hold space for the moments that matter most.
