A couple of years ago I was filling in as the Elder Service Coordinator at Little Brothers. During
that time I had the opportunity to meet Michealean ‘Mickey’ D., a life long resident of the North
End. I want to take a moment to introduce you to this wonderful woman.
Growing up in an active Italian family, Mickey’s life revolved around food, Italian festivals, and
neighbors. A legendary cook, Mickey married a butcher and together they had a son. Her life
continued to be filled with the joys of family and community life until their son was diagnosed
with schizophrenia. His antisocial behavior began to erode the family’s favor in the
neighborhood, a situation that worsened after the death of Mickey’s husband. Her son’s behavior
continued to deteriorate to the point of his refusing treatment for an infection that took his life.
Few attended the funeral. Family and neighbors stayed away.
Mickey was now old and alone.
Without support, isolated, harassed and fearful, Mickey had not been out of the house for some
time. She had even stopped cooking. After I met Mickey, I was able to persuade her to attend
one of Little Brothers’ parties. Once there, Mickey began to relax and smile. I watched her bask
in the attention and affection of those around her.
I keep in close contact with Mickey, calling and visiting frequently, and helping her find a new
apartment where she began to make new friends. Safe and settled, she has started to cook again.
Mickey has always been a contributor, a giver, a doer. After a long and painful hiatus, Mickey
has reclaimed her strength and her sense of self.
Mickey’s Eggplant Parmesan (the Best!)
Peel one big long eggplant (not the round kind, because they have bitter seeds). Cut off the top
and bottom. Lay the eggplant down and cut into ¼ inch slices. Beat 2 eggs together and add salt
and pepper as you like. Dip the eggplant slices in the egg mixture. Heat a pan with oil – just
enough to cover the eggplant. When cooked on both sides, drain the slices on paper towels.
They’re good to eat plain like this, but for this recipe dredge the eggplant slices in Italian
breadcrumbs and layer them in the bottom of an oiled baking pan. Heat some tomato sauce.
Spread grated parmesan on the eggplant, then add some of the tomato sauce. Layer mozzerella or
white American cheese on top and pour on the rest of the sauce. Bake for 20 minutes at 325°.
And say ‘Manga!’, from Mickey.