(630) 549-0654
OUR TEAM
At Life with Dignity, our strength is in our ability to serve the very unique needs of each family at various stages and
across different life cycles. Our diverse group of skilled professionals specializing in different needs allows us to offer
clients more than a one size fits all solution. We tailor our expertise to your exact situation giving you peace of mind
knowing that you're working with someone highly trained and knowledgeable in the field related to the services you need.
We are your navigators, blazing the trail of your life's journey.
Fran Piekarski, CPG, IAC
President
Chief Executive Officer
Fran Piekarski is the founder of Life with Dignity. Her passion to advocate for those that are not able to find the support they needed led her to start Life with Dignity in 2012. Through personal and professional experiences, she became aware of the real need for
support for families and individuals with disabilities. This inspired her to take a leap of faith to fill the need. Fran holds several industry professional certifications, including a Certified Professional Guardian (CPG), a Certified Dementia Professional (CDP), a Certified
Holistic Aromatherapist, and holds a Level II CD from the Institute for Chronic Disorganization specifically to aid individuals with Hoarding Disorder. Fran is a speaker, author, and mentor who has been featured in many publications and media productions.
Virginia Perrelli
Director of Case Management
Virginia Perrelli brings more than 25 years of experience in senior living, healthcare, resident services, and administrative leadership. She holds a bachelor's degree in Healthcare Administration and has a passion for creating compassionate, organized, and welcoming environments that support quality of life and help daily operations run smoothly.
Throughout her career, Virginia has supported teams through staff training, program coordination, budget management, contract coordination, and resident-centered service. She is known for her warm, people-first approach and her ability to build positive relationships with residents, families, staff, and community partners.
Virginia is fluent in English, Italian, and Spanish, helping her connect with and serve diverse communities with care and understanding.
Mary Anderson, B.A.
Chief Operating Officer,
Director of Estate Management
Mary Anderson is the Chief Operations Officer, specializing in estate planning. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Winona State University. Mary began her career in estate management and guardianship after having worked for several years with an attorneys office that primarily served the elderly population. In serving as a guardian, she ensures clients final wishes are fulfilled by facilitating the oversight of the estate liquidation process. As an advocate for clients, especially those suffering from
mental illness, Mary works closely with both the client and supporting resources to promote dignity and the understanding that people are more than their illness.
Dorie Arnold, CADDCT
Case Manager
Dorie Arnold is a Case Manger, specializing in geriatric dementia care. She focuses on the field of memory care and assisted living communities that provide live-in care, medical services, and programing designed to engage memory residents. She has extensive experience designing specialized programs that enhance quality of life for residents and optimize their maintained skills. Dorie's professional certifications include being a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Manager, as well as a Certified Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care Trainer. Dorie's work involves assisting families with making placement decisions and developing coping strategies associated with moving an elderly loved one into a community environment. She strives to advocate for her clients, support them as they navigate the healthcare system, and maximize their autonomy.
Terry Diamond
Administrative Assistant
Terry Diamond is an Administrative Assistant supporting client and estate related administration. She also oversees accounts receivable. Terry’s prior experience includes property management and nearly four decades as a successful business owner. Additionally, Terry’s personal experience with family members as their advocate translated to her role at Life with Dignity. She is a very detailed researcher who knows how to navigate the challenges of multiple governmental agencies to make sure benefits are maximized.
Tisha Howicz, B.A.
Administration & Case Management
Tisha Howicz is a Field Coordinator with a bachelor’s degree from North Central College. Tisha is often the first face our clients meet when coming to the office. She oversees our behind-the-scenes operations, ensuring we are organized and prepared to deliver timely and accurate communication with both our clients and those who provide support services to our clients. In addition, she facilitates property management for the estates we are entrusted with.
Alexis Blaue
Director of Operations & Innovation
Alexis developed her passion for operations and process improvement through her work in IT sales operations, where she learned the value of strong systems and effective teamwork. She thrives on streamlining workflows, strengthening communication, and building structures that help organizations run smoothly. As Director of Operations & Innovation at Life with Dignity, Alexis partners closely with executive leadership to enhance internal operations and ensure employees are supported, informed, and positioned for success. She believes that when teams are well cared for, they are better equipped to care for clients—and is committed to building a culture that values both innovation and people.
Iola Harris
Case Manager
Iola Harris is a case manager with over 25 years of experience working with healthcare agencies, supporting clients through effective resource coordination and utilization. She is dedicated to ensuring clients receive the quality care they deserve. Iola previously served as the CFO of a rural hospital, clinic, and nursing home, where her passion for helping residents and patients access the best possible care truly developed. She continues to carry that passion into her work today.