The wonder of three retired women in Wichita: Friendship and wisdom that shaped my Journey

Helene Longhofer

Tonight marks my last evening in Wichita, and just a few days ago, Helene thoughtfully bought some cards for my children, promising to teach me a Japanese game using them. Even at 84 years old, she hadn’t forgotten her promise and carefully guided me through a game I had never encountered before. Amid all the goodbyes and thoughts of my return to Pristina, this gesture made me pause. What initially seemed like a simple children’s game transformed into something profound—a new connection and a memory that will accompany me long after I leave. Whenever I play with my children, I will remember Helene, this extraordinary woman who dedicated herself to me during these eight days, treating me as if I were part of her family.

Helene, sharing a name with Hurricane Helene that struck Florida on September 23, never slowed down. She dedicated several hours each day to volunteering for her Protestant church, teaching children tennis, and caring for kids with Down syndrome and autism. Three times a week, she worked at a shop she called the ‘Third Store,’ where proceeds went to donations, spending three hours there on each of those days. Helene truly possessed the energy of a hurricane. Despite her many commitments, she became my driver, host, and grandmother during these eight days.

Meeting Helene and witnessing her vibrant way of life, along with that of her peers, left me astonished. In Kosovo, the elderly do not enjoy such an active lifestyle. Here in Wichita, seniors are fully engaged in their communities—they’re not merely sitting by the television waiting for meals. Since last Friday, when we arrived, we traveled hundreds of miles, explored underground, and met dozens of government officials, community members, journalists, and civil society representatives. By the end of the day, while my energy dwindled, they seemed to thrive.

 

Diane Gjerstad

Diana was that strong woman, the kind we often say is the one who opens doors and connects you to their world. She grew up on a small farm in Iowa, living a simple life but one filled with deep values of hard work and dedication. During her college years, she didn’t settle for just attending classes; she was active in student government, an experience that shaped her political ambitions. In 1986, she took this commitment further by being elected to the Kansas House of Representatives. For eight years, she served with dedication, first as a member and then as chair of the Economic Development Committee. With her vision for a stronger Kansas economy, she influenced many policies that reflected her care and foresight.

After retiring from the legislature, Diana didn’t stay quietly at home. For 24 years, she worked as the Director of Governmental Relations for Wichita Public Schools, keeping the link between the schools and local government, always engaged in improving the education system and the future of children.

She was Meg’s host, a special friend to all of us. And when Helene couldn’t join us on some of our trips due to her many commitments, it was Diana who took her car and drove us to every corner of Wichita, making sure we were always comfortable. Diana wasn’t just a driver; she was a living encyclopedia of the city, sharing small and big stories about the schools, the streets, and the community. She laughed with a special sense of humor, especially when she pointed out that, unlike most people in Kansas, she wasn’t a Republican. In fact, with all her political passion, she deeply hoped to see Kamala Harris win, and often mentioned it with a bright smile.

Diana was someone who left a lasting impression, not just for her political strength and commitment to her community, but for her warm and open way of being. She was a living example of what a person with a big heart and tireless spirit can achieve, turning every moment of daily life into an opportunity to create connections and help others

 

Lottie Miller

Another remarkable figure was Lottie, also retired, with a warm smile and boundless energy. She had a unique way of documenting our journey, saying “1, 2, 3” every time she clicked her camera or phone—a little ritual that made each moment feel special. Each evening, she sent us the day’s photos, ensuring that no memory was lost. She even used online translation apps to write in Albanian, adding a personal touch to our interactions.

 

 

Lottie loved to joke with us, especially when the boys teased her about counting. She would humorously change her counting style, saying “1, 2, 5,” which became one of her favorite expressions as the days progressed. When meeting government officials, she would introduce herself with a big smile: “I’m Lottie, I’m retired, and I’m the photographer here.” Whenever she wasn’t with us, she always had someone from our group help fulfill her photography duties, ensuring we all felt special and included in this adventure.

As I prepare to leave, I find it hard to close my suitcase—a sign of this bittersweet last night. It’s one of those thoughts that lingers during travels: you can zip your suitcase when setting out on a journey, but not when you return; they often remain partially closed. The disarray serves as a reminder of the moments lived far from home, memories woven into the fabric of my experience