ABOUT PATTI

If you're reading this, you’ve probably received an enthusiastic smile and hello from Patti at West Beach or around downtown Beverly Farms. You may have sat in her vibrantly decorated classroom at North Beverly Elementary or overheard her encouraging voice as she taught down the hall. You’ve most likely seen her watering her flowers on Everett Street or wading in the summer waves with her granddaughters. You may have even tasted her lemon pound cake or received a card from her for every birthday, anniversary, or random occasion. She is a staple in the Farms community, a memorable educator at North Beverly, and the very most important person to our Drinkwater family. 

 

So, it is with heavy hearts that we share with you that Patti Drinkwater was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in October 2020 at the age of 62. Recently retired and eager to embark on exciting adventures with her husband Al, Patti is determined. And we are right there with her, staunchly insistent that she has many, many happy days ahead. 

 

She adores her husband of 40 years, Al, daughters Katie and Elisabeth, granddaughters Sloane and Sienna, sisters Barbie and Susie, many nieces and nephews, close group of friends, former coworkers and students, Berkshire roots, Beverly Farms neighbors, and her house—especially her garden. And if you don’t fall into any of those categories, or haven’t met her yet, I can guarantee she loves you, too. What makes her special is her relentless empathy and ability to give to everyone around her. As we’re learning about this disease, it tends to affect the special ones, the ones who feel deeply and give generously. 

 

We can be sad and cry and talk about how unfair life can be, but there’s more room for fun and laughter and love—way more room. In fact, this is not a pity party; it’s a Patti party, and if you know, YOU KNOW she’s the best hostess. 

 

We love her so much and are ready to move mountains to ensure that every single day is the best day of her life. We ask that you try to live in the now and find the good. That’s what Patti is doing. She knows this life is beautiful, and we are grateful to live ours with her.