In 2019, JoAnne Klimovich Harrop shared a cherished moment with her mother, Evelyn Klimovich. When the CEO of a nursing home in Pittsburgh realized that visitors would need to be banned due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she immediately thought of Harrop. “She was her mom’s lifeline, and we couldn’t cut off her mom’s lifeline,” said Debbie Winn-Horvitz, the CEO. Harrop wasn’t merely a caregiver; she was deeply connected to her mother, forming a close bond over the years.
Being the youngest of five siblings, Harrop remained in the area and lived with her parents for three years after graduating from college. At 25, she married Perry, but they continued a family tradition of attending church with her parents every Sunday, followed by Sunday dinners often filled with her mother’s famous ravioli. Communication was a significant part of their relationship; they spoke daily and engaged in various activities together, including shopping trips, dining out, attending Pirates baseball games, attending church functions, and playing bingo or visiting the casino. “My mom was my best friend,” Harrop reflected, noting she could share anything with her mother.
In 2004, everything changed when Evelyn suffered a stroke, which left her paralyzed on one side and reliant on a wheelchair. Harrop, alongside her siblings, helped to modify their home by building a ramp and ensured her parents had outings. Sadly, in 2015, Evelyn lost her husband, Paul, after 66 years of marriage. A year later, after breaking her hip, she transitioned to a nursing home where Harrop dedicated herself to daily visits, often choosing to spend the night there. “I worried she might need me during the night,” Harrop explained. Although initially, she used a padded windowsill to sleep, a nurse provided a cot upon noticing her arrangements.
Recognizing Harrop’s exceptional dedication, the staff reached out to her on March 13, 2020, informing her of a potential two-week ban on visitors. Given the circumstances, they offered her the opportunity to stay with her mother without leaving. “I’m in,” Harrop replied, quickly gathering her belongings to head to the nursing home before the lockdown began.
What began as a brief closure turned into an extended period of isolation. During that time, Harrop’s interactions expanded beyond her mother’s small room. Rose “Rosie” Mervis Wyner, another resident who had shared meals with Evelyn, granted permission for Harrop to visit, leading to the pair playing gin rummy regularly. Harrop also kept her siblings updated through “window visits,” conversing with their mother through glass. Local friends helped sustain her with meals and necessities, which contributed to maintaining a healthy environment within the facility; only one employee tested positive for the virus during the lockdown.
Despite challenges, including reminders to her mother about the ongoing situation, Harrop focused on keeping spirits high. She dressed impeccably each day, continuing her routine despite the circumstances. Mondays were filled with hallway bingo, while other days featured treats from volunteers and special meals for staff, which included Harrop. Besides caring for her mother, Harrop ensured other residents remained comfortable and provided support where she could.
“JoAnne was everyone’s daughter,” said Winn-Horvitz, who warmly regarded Harrop’s efforts during the crisis. In April, although MLB’s opening day was canceled, Harrop arranged a special day for her mother, dressing Evelyn in Pirates gear and leading a sing-along of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” which brought joy to residents, all while maintaining social distance. However, complications arose soon after when Evelyn was diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer following a hospital visit.
As Harrop supported her mother through unbearable pain, her mother’s health deteriorated quickly. On June 5, 2020, Evelyn Klimovich passed away, with JoAnne by her side. Harrop spent one last night in the nursing home, clinging to her mother’s beloved stuffed pink pig. Once back at home, many expressed their admiration for her commitment. Some shared their apprehensions about nursing homes, but Harrop encouraged them: “Don’t be scared. The residents have incredible stories,” she said, highlighting their rich pasts full of experiences.
Almost five years on, Harrop continues visiting Wyner, who celebrated her 100th birthday last year. “Rosie has become like a second mother to me,” Harrop expressed, emphasizing that their bond extended beyond friendship into family.
