Gene's Heart's Desire finally came true.  A patient at ManorCare Health Services in Gig Harbor, Washington, he wanted so much to drink a martini.  His request was simple, but it came with very specific instructions -- "three parts gin to one part vermouth, shaken, not stirred, with two olives, thank you."

ManorCare's speech pathologist and restorative nursing aide overheard Gene say he would love to have a martini someday.  That was all the inspiration they needed to plan a party for Gene that would make his wish come true. 

Friends and family came to the ManorCare sports lounge for the event.  ManorCare staff made a toast to Gene as well as another resident who said, "Here's a toast to Gene, who willingly shared his dream.  We all are here and ready to cheer 'cause it's a martini and not Jim Beam."

After Gene took the first drink of his long-awaited martini, he said "Ahhh.  That's the real thing."