At Buda Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care, Executive Director Susan LaBree isn’t just leading a team — she’s stitching their stories together, one project at a time. Over the past year, Susan has lovingly created more than a dozen personalized pillows for memory care residents, each one designed and printed with the resident’s own words. She calls it the “I Am” Project.
Always on the lookout for meaningful new ideas, Susan came across similar pillows on Pinterest and was inspired to bring the concept to Buda Oaks — adding her own heartfelt touch to make each one uniquely personal. With the support of families, she’s transformed this idea into a cherished tradition for memory care residents.
Each pillow offers a snapshot of a resident’s life — written in first person and filled with treasured details such as family members, careers, hobbies, favorite music, and even beloved sports teams. Families provide the information, and Susan brings their stories to life in a way that bridges the gap between caregiver and resident.
“What inspired me was the desire to build deeper relationships between our care team and our residents,” Susan shared. “I wanted something visual, personal, and meaningful to serve as a reminder of who each resident truly is.”
The impact of the project has reached far beyond expectations. Vendors such as home health and hospice aides use the pillows as a quick way to get to know the individuals they serve.
Residents and families alike have expressed their appreciation for the thoughtful gesture — but none have been more touched than the family of Shirley W., a beloved Buda Oaks resident who recently passed away. Shirley’s family was so moved by the pillow Susan created for her, they asked for her to be buried with it.
“I was incredibly touched,” Susan said. “Shirley loved living here, and her family wanted her to take a piece of ‘home’ with her. It’s an honor I’ll never forget.”
Her unique idea and meaningful gesture has been recognized locally. CBS Austin shared about her project across Central Texas, as well as the Hays Free Press.
To date, Susan has created 17 pillows, with more on the way as new families contribute their loved ones’ stories. The process is deeply personal and time-intensive — but to Susan, it’s worth every second.
See the Heart Behind Memory Care
At Buda Oaks in Buda, Texas, memory care means more than security and support — it means honoring each resident’s life story with compassion and creativity. From heartfelt projects like the “I Am” pillows to personalized attention each day, your loved one will receive care that feels like home. Schedule a tour today and experience the Buda Oaks difference.
