Moms typically live longer than dads: On average, American men have a life expectancy of 76 years, with women living five years longer.
So Mesa mothers like Edna Mae Troupa (four daughters) and Mary Lou Kipp (four sons) have to get used to sailing solo in their twilight years.
While holidays like Motherâs Day are typically bright spots, this time last year, a raging COVID-19 pandemic dimmed celebrations.
âIâm a farm girl and Iâm kind of tough,â said Troupa, who could be called a real trooper. âIâm trying during the pandemic not to worry.â
Kipp, who could be called a real pip, added, âWe were really shut down. But the staff here is great. They made it possible for us to keep on.â