Lahari’s dream comes true

When Francis Racey opened Lahari at his own home in 1994, he dreamed of the day when it would have its own property, and its own facility. “But I had no clue as to how to do it,” he said with a smile.

Eight years later, Racey has been able to realize that dream, thanks largely to two extraordinary contributions; one an anonymous donation of $600,000, and the other a nine-acre piece of property where Lahari is now located. The latter was provided by Orcas islanders Dick and Becky Greaves. Many other islanders have contributed both time and money to Lahari.

Racey insists he did nothing to make the dream a reality. Rather, he explained, the donors contacted him. In the case of Dick Greaves, “He just called up and said, ‘I understand you’re looking for land,’” Racey recalled. He describes the property as “enchanted.”

These two huge donations, plus many small ones, were sparked by a shared belief that all of San Juan County needs a place where the dying can spend the last days of their lives in an environment that is peaceful, friendly, and dignified.

Lahari’s new hospice care home has one guest room plus another for resident manager, Ron Slabaugh. Much of the care is provided by hospice nurse Molly Roberts.

The guest room is also available for respite care, where persons undergoing long-term care can have a place to stay while the caregivers get a much-needed rest, administrator Suzi Rose explained.

The new home was designed by Orcas Island architect Fred Klein, with input from Lahari staff and board members. All of those doing the construction were local people in the building trades industry. “That was very important to us,” Racey said.

This fall, Lahari board member Kate Shellie will offer a training program for those interested in becoming Lahari volunteers. Racey said being a volunteer can be extremely gratifying, even fun. “A person dying has a lot to teach us,” Racey said.

Long-term, Lahari would like to find additional uses for the property. “Having received all this generosity, we want to be able to use it,” Racey said. Future plans are hazy, although Lahari’s “vision statement speaks about a retreat or educational center around living and dying,” Racey said.

Great music, food at open house

On Sunday afternoon, June 15, from 1 to 5 p.m., Lahari will celebrate the grand opening of its new hospice and respite care center facility. It’s in Deer Harbor, overlooking Turtleback, Turtlehead, and nearby waters. The opening, to which the entire community is invited, will feature music by island entertainers including Susan Osborn, tap dancer Noah Racey, Orcas A Capella, the Oddguys, a flute ensemble and the Olga Symphony.

Refreshments will be provided by both individual islanders and restaurants. A tent will be set up, assuring that the grand opening can take place rain or shine,

Parking is limited at the site. A shuttle, however, will be available from the Deer Harbor Community Club. If questions, call Rose at 376-2637.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read.