Ronald’s Story: Finding a Way to Pursue His Passion
Ronald came to Eagle Ridge after a stay at the St. Mary’s Hospital rehab center.
His family was concerned about his eating, him being lonely and his forgetfulness.
Ron was worried about his first love: woodworking.
When he moved to our community, he was depressed because he thought his woodworking days were over. His family even thought about selling his equipment because he would no longer be able to use it.
We knew how much this meant to Ron, so within a few days, we moved his saw and some tools to the perfect area at Eagle Ridge.
Ron was overjoyed and has been making beautiful bird houses and other wooden pieces ever since.
Most days, Ron is working away with sawdust in his hair and a smile on his face, doing what makes him the happiest!
Mac’s Story: Helping Others Again
Mac is a man who has worn several hats in his lifetime.
He served in the Marines and coached the tennis team at Millikin University. Once he retired, he served up the famous winery burgers at the local waterhole on Millikin’s campus.
As you can see, Mac has always been doing something that helps other or brings them joy.
So, it was only right that he would do the same when he moved to Eagle Ridge after suffering a stroke last March.
He started our Puzzle Club. This group does more than put together jigsaw puzzles. They glue them together and sell the finished product. They donate the proceeds, including a recent $100 donation that went to the North East Community Fund that helps the homeless.
Mac is an awesome role model for all our residents; actually, he’s an awesome role model for everyone!
If you can’t find Mac in the sunroom, working on one of our hardest jigsaw puzzles, you’ll find him in the therapy room doing extra exercise, so one day, he can pick up a tennis racket and give us a few lessons at Eagle Ridge!
Howard and Barbara’s Love Story
Barb and Howard’s road to our community wasn’t easy. They’ve had some bouts with illnesses and issues with Howard’s forgetfulness.
They looked at other facilities – and even lived in one for a month. It was then that they decided to look at Eagle Ridge, and Barb said it felt like home the moment they walked into the door.
It’s the people that make our community so special. All of the residents are extremely friendly, the Sevits said, and the staff goes out of their way to be caring and compassionate.
“There is no place else we’d want to live,” Barb says.
The Sevits have been married for more than six decades.
Howard asked Barb on many dates before she finally agreed to go out with him. After that, their fate was sealed. Barb describes the time they’ve spent together as their best years.
A few years ago, Barb got sick, and it was difficult to do things around the house. They began their search for a place they could call home and find the help they needed.
Moving to Eagle Ridge has been an adjustment and made it easier for Barb to cope with Howard’s illness. Because of the assistance our community provides, Barb doesn’t have to worry about cooking or cleaning, and the couple can focus their energy on what matters most: spending time with each other.
One thing is certain, Barb says, Eagle Ridge of Decatur has been a blessing.
Paul and Jean: Continuing Their Love Story at Eagle Ridge
Paul and Jean Hupp have been married for 70 years!
They have traveled to several places but always return to their hometown of Decatur.
After some illnesses and a fall at home, they decided to take a look at Eagle Ridge. They were worried they wouldn’t be able to afford to live in a community like ours, but we assured them that wasn’t the case.
Within a week of touring Eagle Ridge, they moved into their apartment.
“I knew it was a perfect fit,” Jean said after her first visit. “We had room to move around, and people to help us when we needed help.”
Eagle Ridge of Decatur has provided peace of mind for the couple.
“I don’t have to worry about fixing three meals a day, and we don’t have to bother family for help getting to the doctor.”
Another thing Jean says they appreciate are all of the opportunities to visit with our residents.
“They are all like family to us now,” she says.
The Hupps have been able to make new memories at our community, and they are looking forward to making more.
Paul agrees with everything his lovely wife says, and that is why we’ve been able to stay married for 70 years. I just keep agreeing with her.”
