NOT FOUND: baseball.JPGDoris Dobbs, a self-proclaimed “89-and-a-half-year-old lifetime baseball lover,” received a thrill of a lifetime, literally. This lively resident of the Eskaton Lodge Granite Bay assisted living community has been watching professional baseball since 1944, when she and her husband purchased their first television. But for most true fans, nothing beats the actual ballpark experience.
Experience, she did. With the support of the Sacramento River Cats and Eskaton’s Thrill of a Lifetime initiative, Dobbs was able not only to attend her first game in many years, but had a lifetime dream fulfilled by tossing out the September 1st game’s ceremonial first pitch.
Dobbs can recall watching Giants games, sitting in her red rocking chair with her young daughter on her lap, teaching her to say “Go Willie Mays!” Thanks to the Sacramento River Cats, Dobbs’ was once again whistling “take me out to the ballgame” on her way to Raley Field. She and her daughter, son-in-law and two adult grandchildren will enjoy a ballgame at Raley Field and get the full VIP treatment, including the first pitch and a behind-the-scenes VIP pre-game tour.
“I’m nervous and excited that this is a real thrill!” said Dobbs, in anticipation of the big day. To prepare for her big first pitch, Dobbs undertook “baseball practice” for a month with her “coaches” (both Eskaton employees), who helped her work on her pitching form, as well as her strength and balance.
About Eskaton -- Eskaton provides community living and home-based support to enhance the independence and quality of living for more than 14,000 older adults annually throughout Northern California. The nonprofit organization's full spectrum of aging services includes residential living with services, assisted living, memory care, hospice, rehabilitation and skilled nursing, home care, adult day healthcare and multiple other special programs. Affordability, innovation, collaboration, education and compassion are Eskaton standards. Thrill of a Lifetime is one of many of the organization’s initiatives designed to transform the aging experience. Learn more at www.eskaton.org.