One Man’s Journey
Courtesy of Monticello West, Three Fountains and Signature Pointe on the Lake, North Dallas LIVING WELL Magazine
I was sitting in my office about six months ago when I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Howard Peck. Unfortunately, Mr. Peck had recently had a stroke and needed to make decisions regarding housing, healthcare and transportation. Mr. Peck’s journey is both informative and inspirational. He has agreed to let me share it with you.
Mr. Peck arrived at our assisted living community looking for options other than living at home alone. He stated his family was supportive and actively involved in helping him in his search. One of my first interview questions for Howard was how he dealt with the emotions of selling his home. Howard stated the social worker played a big part in helping him realize his need for a living arrangement that offered support. “Yes,” he said, “selling my home was emotional, but when the need for care is upon you, you must make the right choice for yourself.”
I asked Howard what brought him to the community where I worked. He stated his daughter-in-law’s father had lived in the community and enjoyed the experience. It was apparent to me the family’s involvement and past experiences played a big part in Mr. Peck’s decision.
I was curious about features Howard looked for in the communities he visited. “I want it to be like home…a kitchen and spare rooms,” he replied. What else was important to you I asked. “Meals, transportation and housekeeping…I also enjoy music, lectures, playing Black Jack and cards,” he said. It was obvious to me Howard was no couch potato.
Knowing that others might benefit from Mr. Peck’s story, I asked him what suggestions he would offer for those on a similar journey. “Check out the food in advance,” he stated. “Also when you walk into a community, ask yourself how it makes you feel. Does it look nice and clean? Does it offer the care you need?”
“Well, Mr. Peck,” I said, “you have been here six months, are you glad you moved?” Howard replied, “Glad may not be the word I used at first, I moved out of necessity, due to my condition. However, I realize now the security of having assistance available, being able to use the exercise room daily, and meeting new friends has helped me to truly be able to say, ‘I am GLAD I moved’. The companionship I am developing with other residents is great. I look forward to seeing them for meals, beating them at Black Jack and just sharing stories from our past together.”
As Howard headed off for lunch with friends, I felt privileged to have been a part of his journey. His courage and ability to accept the need for change is inspirational. The involvement of his family and health care professionals was obviously essential in his decision making process. However, Howard obviously knew what he wanted and wouldn’t settle for less. All journeys should have a happy ending, I thought, but in Howard’s case it seems more like a happy beginning.
For more information you may contact Kristen Wizeman, Monticello West, at 214-528-0660, David Skiles, Three Fountains, at 214-363-4116 and Lonnie Channing, Signature Pointe on the Lake, at 972-726-7575.
