Navigating the Next Chapter Series - Part 2

Irene, who will be 90 this July, is a retired pharmacist who worked for Shoppers Drug Mart in Ontario for 21 years.  Her and her husband (who was an Engineer) loved to travel the world, they were always planning their next big trip.  “We had a lovely marriage - we did almost everything together, he was my best friend!” Irene explains.  They eventually moved out to British Columbia where she began some unexpected, but interesting new hobbies. Some of these hobbies included making beautiful porcelain dolls and ceramic teapots. The idea was initially suggested to her by a friend to start making dolls, to which Irene replied with lots of laughter! Well it turned out she had quite the hidden talent for this, so she kept on making them.

Irene's dolls displayed at Fleetwood Villa's craft fair

Two years ago, her husband of 70 years passed away, not only was Irene devastated but as time went on, she began to find the upkeep of her home to be too much for her to manage. That is when she knew it was time to consider other options, where she could continue to live independently without any worries. Irene soon found her new home- Fleetwood Villa.

Fleetwood Villa is a fun and vibrant community, it is bright, open and full of natural light. The moment you enter the building you are greeted with friendly staff and a warm and inviting environment. Not to mention, the beautifully landscaped courtyard for everyone to enjoy, and the delicious chef prepared meals they provide.

When Irene first moved in, she found everyone to be very welcoming, and mentions that there are always lots of activities to choose from and so many opportunities for socializing and making new friends.  “The recreation manager Allan, is wonderful, he puts so much effort into everything he does!”  Knowing that moving into a brand-new community all by yourself (especially after losing your spouse) can be a bit intimidating and overwhelming, Irene decided to join the Welcome Ambassadors group to help others experiencing the same emotions.

​When new people move in, Irene introduces herself and shows them around. She also offers to accompany them to events and programs, so she can introduce them to the other residents, and help them feel more comfortable.  She recently received a certificate of appreciation to recognize her outstanding dedication, and commitment to helping celebrate the ageless spirit of the residents at Fleetwood Villa!  Well done Irene!!

Irene is a very fun-loving and kind lady who loves to help others and make them smile.  She lives with her incredibly adorable 15-year-old dog ‘Tippy-D’ who was named after one of her dearest friends.

Irene, with Tippy-D and friends, enjoying a drink

Irene says her favourite thing to do at Fleetwood Villa, is to enjoy a glass of wine with friends and listen to live musical entertainment.  Irene’s advice to anyone feeling fearful or undecided about the idea of moving into a retirement community is:

​“If you’ve lost a partner, not only is it difficult, but you have to also accept the possibility that you might become lonely or isolated. Transitioning into a Retirement Community helps alleviate those feelings by finding new companionship and being part of a community. Smile today and you will smile tomorrow, keep trying new things, meet new people and don’t give up.”

One last word to the masses by Irene:

“Make sure you get the right suite that works for you! I am currently waiting for a bigger suite- not because I want room for a swimming pool, but because I want a big closet! I love clothes!"

Irene, who will be 90 this July, is a retired pharmacist who worked for Shoppers Drug Mart in Ontario for 21 years.  Her and her husband (who was an Engineer) loved to travel the world, they were always planning their next big trip.  “We had a lovely marriage - we did almost everything together, he was my best friend!” Irene explains.  They eventually moved out to British Columbia where she began some unexpected, but interesting new hobbies. Some of these hobbies included making beautiful porcelain dolls and ceramic teapots. The idea was initially suggested to her by a friend to start making dolls, to which Irene replied with lots of laughter! Well it turned out she had quite the hidden talent for this, so she kept on making them.

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Irene's dolls displayed at Fleetwood Villa's craft fair

Two years ago, her husband of 70 years passed away, not only was Irene devastated but as time went on, she began to find the upkeep of her home to be too much for her to manage. That is when she knew it was time to consider other options, where she could continue to live independently without any worries. Irene soon found her new home- Fleetwood Villa.

Fleetwood Villa is a fun and vibrant community, it is bright, open and full of natural light. The moment you enter the building you are greeted with friendly staff and a warm and inviting environment. Not to mention, the beautifully landscaped courtyard for everyone to enjoy, and the delicious chef prepared meals they provide.

When Irene first moved in, she found everyone to be very welcoming, and mentions that there are always lots of activities to choose from and so many opportunities for socializing and making new friends.  “The recreation manager Allan, is wonderful, he puts so much effort into everything he does!”  Knowing that moving into a brand-new community all by yourself (especially after losing your spouse) can be a bit intimidating and overwhelming, Irene decided to join the Welcome Ambassadors group to help others experiencing the same emotions.

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When new people move in, Irene introduces herself and shows them around. She also offers to accompany them to events and programs, so she can introduce them to the other residents, and help them feel more comfortable.  She recently received a certificate of appreciation to recognize her outstanding dedication, and commitment to helping celebrate the ageless spirit of the residents at Fleetwood Villa!  Well done Irene!!
 
Irene is a very fun-loving and kind lady who loves to help others and make them smile.  She lives with her incredibly adorable 15-year-old dog ‘Tippy-D’ who was named after one of her dearest friends.

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Irene, with Tippy-D and friends, enjoying a drink

​Irene says her favourite thing to do at Fleetwood Villa, is to enjoy a glass of wine with friends and listen to live musical entertainment.  Irene’s advice to anyone feeling fearful or undecided about the idea of moving into a retirement community is:

​“If you’ve lost a partner, not only is it difficult, but you have to also accept the possibility that you might become lonely or isolated. Transitioning into a Retirement Community helps alleviate those feelings by finding new companionship and being part of a community. Smile today and you will smile tomorrow, keep trying new things, meet new people and don’t give up.”

One last word to the masses by Irene:

“Make sure you get the right suite that works for you! I am currently waiting for a bigger suite- not because I want room for a swimming pool, but because I want a big closet! I love clothes!"

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