Wednesday, December 17 2008 - Helping Coach
Craig Dudnick and Coach more photos >>
When Craig Dudnick first met Mrs. Viola Hillsman, he was just 19. He was a student at Northwestern University - she was the 76-year-old cook in his fraternity house. The two became close friends, and Craig came to depend on Mrs. Hillsman's advice. In fact, he and the other frat boys had nicknamed her "Coach."
A few years after he graduated, Craig found himself back in Chicago, needing a place to stay. He moved into Coach's basement and soon realized she needed his help. Her husband died, and eventually she developed dementia. Craig ended up caring for Coach for 20 years.
He talks with Dick Gordon about what he learned from Coach, and how their close friendship changed his life.
- Learn more about Craig's film, "Evanston's Living History"