Life’s journey may take us in many different directions and on occasion it brings us in a full circle. Donna Andes is one of those special people who have experienced such a journey.
Donna elected to become a resident of The Pines community of Cortland in 2016. Interestingly, that journey began 46 years earlier. While working in Thomas with a home health agency, she was invited by Margaret Butcher of Parsons, the visionary behind Cortland Acres, to assist in the effort to build a nursing home in Tucker County. For two years Donna worked with Margaret Butcher, planning, designing, and going through all the steps in the arduous process of developing a nursing home.
Donna was well suited to the task. She had grown up in rural Minnesota, obtained a nursing degree and ultimately worked in a variety of nurse education and clinical settings. Her values and life’s mission were shaped by her years as a Franciscan Sister. Though in time she left the Franciscan order, her devotion to God and to service grew even stronger. She went on to obtain a doctorate in divinity, became a financial planner, insurance agent, network marketer and two-time author.
Donna’s life story has been carefully recorded in her second book and autobiography entitled: “I Would Do It All Again”. The pain of losing two husbands to untimely deaths and yet the joy of living and continuing to live a purposeful and meaningful life are woven throughout the book.
Recently awarded the Elbert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement award – an honor reserved for biographies’ who have demonstrated leadership, excellence and longevity within their respective professions – Donna’s days continue to be filled with encouraging and inspiring the many people who cross her path. She teaches and ministers in church settings, promotes healthy living, has obtained certification in crisis counseling, visits numerous friends from around the country and helps maintains the high tunnel / green house on Cortland’s campus.
Presently, Donna works as a Marriage Biblical Specialist for the Hope Marriage Center through Christ in Action and is available Mondays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 304-463-3303.
While her life may read like an adventure novel, she is simply a woman who fills her days making the world a better place. Obviously she is a busy lady and to see her you may need to make an appointment. However, you will be enriched as she assures you that you were the highlight of her day.
Donna will be signing copies of her autobiography “I Would Do It All Again” at the Cortland Acres’ gift shop on Friday, September 21 starting at 1 p.m. Please stop by and experience first-hand her amazing gifts and uplifting powers.
