In 1952, when Sister Ignatia Gavin founded Rosary Hall at the age of 63, she worked tirelessly to help those in need of alcohol and drug dependency receive treatment. Throughout her life, she left behind the legacy of caring for more than 20,000 men and women. Those she helped over the years remember her fondly, sitting in her rocking chair during meetings, helping them restore their strength and earn their Sacred Heart Badge. Among them—was Cail Wallett.
Cail found sobriety through the help of Sister Ignatia on May 25, 1963. By the time Sister Ignatia retired two years later, Rosary Hall was considered one of the finest treatment centers in the nation and with her retirement, she passed down her iconic rocking chair to a member within the program.
Cail was living in Brook Park, Ohio and received a call from a friend during his time at Rosary Hall who wanted to pass down Sister Ignatia’s rocking chair.
“Cail was humbled at the thought of keeping her legacy alive. We’ve moved from Brook Park, Ohio to San Diego and finally in Arizona, where we’ve lived the past 18 years—her rocking chair has been with us for nearly 30 years and traveled all across the country,” said Catherine Wallet, Cail’s wife.
But when Cail passed away in March of 2005, his family knew it was time for the long journey home.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1875.0"] The Wallett family pictured with Sr. Ignatia Gavin's rocking chair.[/caption]
On May 25, 2017, Rosary Hall held a special dedication to honor the homecoming of Sister Ignatia’s rocking chair. In attendance was Cail’s son Tom, who helped dedicate and bless the chair on a day of personal significance—the day his father found sobriety, 54 years ago.
Today, Rosary Hall has helped more than 60,000 people—just like Cail—receive the treatment they need.
There is no higher purpose than protecting the lives of those within our own community. Every person associated with Rosary Hall is still driven today by the mission that people heal people.
If you or a loved one are in need of help—there is hope. Please call 216-363-2580 and press 4 to speak with a caregiver immediately.
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