By Robin Bertram of Heritage Woods of Belvidere, a BMA affordable assisted living community
For Charlotte McVay and Walter Halladay, first came moving into Heritage Woods of Belvidere.
Charlotte is a “good-will ambassador,” welcoming new residents to our affordable assisted living community, which is how she and Walter met. Charlotte had moved into Heritage Woods in early September of 2011. Originally from Missouri, she was living in the Shadley senior living apartments in Belvidere. Walter, who was born in Ontario, Canada, moved in a few weeks later.
They discovered a common bond, with both coming from manufacturing backgrounds. As they spent more time together, they knew there was something more to their relationship.
They married in a small ceremony at Heritage Woods that was attended by 40 of their close friends and family. Charlotte has one daughter and Walter has two sons. Their children and grandchildren were all in attendance.
The nuptial ceremony was followed by a larger reception that also included many of their Heritage Woods neighbors.
When asked what he liked best about Charlotte, Walter said, “when you ask her a question, you’ll always get an answer, even if it isn’t the one you wanted. She is tough, direct knowledgeable, and capable of almost anything.”
Charlotte says she has told Walter on more than one occasion that he is the best thing that has happened to her.
The secret to the success of their relationship is that they have many things in common, and when they don’t, they complement one another and accept their difference.
They did not move into Heritage Woods looking for love. Love found them.
A few days after Charlotte and Walter wed, I was talking with a woman who told me that people move into places like Heritage Woods to die.
Charlotte and Walter are a perfect example of two people who moved in and discovered a new reason to live.
All affordable assisted living communities managed by BMA Management, Ltd. are certified and surveyed by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. All assisted living communities are licensed and surveyed by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
“BMA Management, Ltd. is the leading provider of assisted living in Illinois
and one of the 20 largest providers of assisted living in the United States.”
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