Dr. Mary Whitmer

ESCANABA ­– Aging is sometimes seen as a negative part of life, but one retired Gladstone physician is working to quell that misconception and instead, teach how we can flourish and live joyfully in our golden years.

Dr. Mary Whitmer will be giving a free presentation for the general public about the topic of aging and how to flourish and find joy in your life, no matter what stage you are in. Her presentation will be Thursday, Oct. 24 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Gary Abrahamson, Jr. Memory Care Center (GAJMCC), located at 2635 1st Ave. S. in Escanaba.

“The talk is regarding the gift of years,” said Whitmer. “There is much we cannot control in the path chosen for us in terms of aging, disease and losses in life, but perspective impacts true flourishing, and reflecting on what true happiness is can help prepare our hearts and minds for tough times ahead.”

Mary Uelmen, manager of the GAJMCC, says Whitmer’s talk will teach the key to flourishing is finding joy in the “autumn” of life.

“Dr. Whitmer will discuss what people can do to learn how to live gratefully and prepare for the ‘winter’ of life,” Uelmen said.

After her presentation, Whitmer will hold a question and answer session, so those at the presentation can ask questions and share their thoughts and observations.

Whitmer retired from her family practice at OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group – Gladstone on May 1. However, Whitmer will remain on the OSF St. Francis Hospital Medical staff and continue to provide care to residents of its local nursing home facilities.

Whitmer began her career in 1988 as a private practice physician in Gladstone. In 1995, the practice merged with OSF and today is a part OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group – Gladstone. She spent her career serving patients out of the OSF Gladstone Clinic on Michigan Avenue until 2017 when OSF HealthCare built the existing building on 4th Avenue.

Whitmer is a member of the Catholic Medical Association.

For more information on the presentation, call 906-786-5810, ext. 150.