Mary Jo’s Story

The definition of friendship isn’t always easily described but it is clear what it means to Mary Jo.

Her smile is infectious and all those around her feel her thoughtfulness.

Mary Jo lives in Shakopee at the Swift Lane home with 3 longterm friends, one of which is her foster sister. As you enter her home, she is the first face you see and the first voice you hear. She greets without judgement and gives you her heart and friendship without fear.

Mary Jo loves to create friendship bracelets for everyone she holds dear. She spends hours giving each bracelet she creates a personal touch and attention. Most of the time, the bracelets are presented with a sweet handwritten note from Mary Jo and are hand delivered by Mary Jo herself. You look around at the people in Mary Jo’s life and you will see the numerous varieties of signature works of art around their wrists. Mary Jo beams with excitement and pride upon the completion of each bracelet and when she sees her friends wearing one of her creations.

Mary Jo, also known as MJ, is generous with her time and always willing to give an extra hand. Invitations are abundant to her friends in the community, to visit her at home or receive a bracelet-making lesson. She is extremely helpful and always aiming to please.

Mary Jo has Down’s Syndrome, a heart murmur and also suffers from lumbar lordosis (sway back) and bilateral metatarsus adductus (internal rotation of both knees), which make it extremely difficult to walk for long distances and for long periods of time. Over the years, MJ’s weight had steadily increased. Her physician and caregivers presented her with a set of strengthening exercises as well as a healthy diet. Mary Jo met this challenge head on and within a year had lost 25lbs. Mary Jo continues to work very hard at maintaining a healthy lifestyle and her current weight. Every morning and afternoon you will find Mary Jo completing her exercises and almost daily MJ will be at the local community center walking the track or at Gold’s Gym swimming or using the aerobic equipment to the best of her ability. If you ask MJ why she exercises she will tell you, “it’s good for my heart!”

Mary Jo’s friendship, kind heart and pure determination are an inspiration to us all!