Milestone Senior Living of Hillsboro Makes Dreams Soar with “Dare to Dream” Initiative

February 19, 2024

At Milestone Senior Living of Hillsboro, managed by Jaybird Senior Living, we treasure every resident. Through our “Dare to Dream” initiative, we honor their stories, aspirations, and dreams. This program is all about making those dreams come true, celebrating our residents’ lives, and creating cherished memories. This month, we were thrilled to spotlight beloved resident Mike Hammer.

Mike has led a life full of adventure and service. As a proud Air Force veteran, he spent four years serving his country, working tirelessly on airplanes. His love for flying took him all over the world, from the stunning landscapes of Hawaii and Alaska to the bustling streets of Paris. Even as time passed, Mike’s passion for aviation never waned, and his dream was to take flight once more.

Thanks to the generosity of Hillsboro locals Tom and Brandt Parker, Mike’s dream became a reality. The Milestone community gathered at Reedsburg Municipal Airport for a day of soaring adventure. With Brandt’s Piper Cherokee plane ready, Mike settled into the co-pilot seat, his excitement palpable.

“We’re thrilled to help make Mike’s dream come true,” shared Brittany Kuester, Life Engagement Coordinator at Milestone Senior Living of Hillsboro. “Moments like these remind us of the power of community and the importance of cherishing everyone’s dreams.”

With Tom at the controls and Brandt by his side, Mike embarked on an unforgettable journey through the skies. From the serene waters of Devil’s Lake to familiar landmarks like Milestone 

and the High School, every moment was filled with excitement. Mike’s smile lit up the cockpit, reflecting the joy of realizing his dream, with his niece Lori Stanek and her husband Al by his side.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Tom and Brandt Parker for their support and generosity,” expressed Brittany Kuester. “Their kindness has made a lasting impact on Mike’s life and our entire community.”

As the plane soared at 129 mph, reaching heights of 2,900 ft, Mike experienced true freedom, joy, and a renewed sense of possibility.

For Mike Hammer and the Milestone Senior Living of Hillsboro community, “Dare to Dream” is more than just a program; it’s a testament to compassion, connection, and the human spirit. As we continue to celebrate our residents’ dreams, Milestone remains dedicated to fostering a culture of empathy, inclusion, and endless possibilities.