8 February, 2016 | 1 min read

Paddy Shende’s Life Experience

by Jordan Scott, Victory High School Advanced Placement Student

Eskaton Village Carmichael

Even though Paddy Shende has been living at Eskaton Village Carmichael for less than a year, he already knows there is no comparison. His favorite part of Eskaton is the people, both the residents and the staff. Paddy enjoys activities that involve using his hands, such as painting, crafts, gardening, and carpentry. He is happy to try every activity offered to him.

Paddy was born in India and was orphaned by the age of five. In 1971, he moved to America with only five dollars in his pocket. Although he had no experience, he was given a chance by a World War II veteran who had witnessed the work ethic of the Indian people. Paddy worked with the Austin Company in Chicago for a short time before joining Conesco Equipment Builders in New Jersey. He also earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering. At 72, his former employer still checks with him periodically to see if he would like to return to work. But Paddy is having too much fun at Eskaton.

Paddy's life is filled with adventure. He loves to explore and has spent much time travelling all over the world. Some of the countries he has visited are Switzerland, Mexico, Ecuador, Thailand, the Middle East, Vietnam, Cambodia, Canada, and Italy. Paddy's advice to others is to be happy and content with what you have.

Click here to see a watercolor Paddy painted in 2003.