A Lifetime of Care: Ginny Reilly Drews Reflects on 45 Years at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Convent.

Ginny Reilly Drews’ 45-year journey at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Convent is a testament to dedication, compassion, and the deep bonds formed between staff and the Daughters of Wisdom. She began her career as a part-time nurse in 1981, inspired by the unique spirit of the convent and by her husband's encouragement. Over the years, Ginny witnessed and contributed to significant changes within the convent, including renovations to the buildings, evolving care routines, and the growth of a close-knit, supportive community. The sisters’ generosity and faith played as important a role in her experience as her paycheck, creating a workplace sustained by mutual care and spiritual connection.

Throughout her tenure, Ginny became intimately familiar with many sisters and colleagues, each leaving a distinct mark on her memory. In this interview, she shares heartwarming and sometimes humorous stories about the Sisters, illustrating the unique personalities and life experiences that enriched the convent’s culture. The sisters’ resilience, creativity, and unwavering spirit were reflected in everyday moments—whether tending the gardens, caring for one another, or recalling childhood memories from decades past. The staff, too, evolved into a surrogate family, supporting one another during personal losses and celebrating milestones together.

The convent itself underwent major physical and cultural transformations. From the original, simpler building layout to the expanded, modern spaces, every change was designed to better serve the sisters’ needs while preserving a sense of home. Ginny described the day-to-day routines, the importance of traditions like Mass, and the camaraderie that developed over shared meals, holiday celebrations, and even snowstorms. The enduring bonds between staff and sisters ensured that everyone was cared for with dignity and love, making the convent a true haven for all who lived and worked there.

Ginny’s reflections also highlight the profound impact the Daughters of Wisdom had on her personal and spiritual growth. The stories, faith, and example of the sisters enriched her understanding of Catholicism and instilled a lifelong appreciation for service. Her own family became intertwined with the life of the convent, with her children participating in activities and forming their own relationships with the sisters. For Ginny, the convent was far more than a place of work—it was a source of comfort, belonging, and enduring gratitude, shaped by decades of shared joys, challenges, and unwavering support.