Our team recently sat down with Kay Toomey, a resident at Parkland in the Valley, to talk about her New Beginning at Parkland. Kay was excited to share her story in hopes that it will inspire others to start living their best life. “I’m happy to share my experience because it may encourage somebody else. They’ll think, ‘if she enjoys it, maybe I should try it.’ ”

How has your life changed since moving to Parkland?

I would have to say it’s changed a lot because everything that I previously had to do in order to survive, I don’t have to do that anymore. I have my own room, my privacy. I can do what I want and come and go as I please. Everyone is so friendly. I don’t know what more you could ask for.  

We have a great bunch of girls in the kitchen who make fantastic meals and they’re always friendly. If I don’t show up for a meal, they call me to make sure I’m okay. They are so thoughtful and considerate.

What made you choose Parkland?

I had a next-door neighbour whose mom lived at Parkland for years. He used to come up and visit her every day and he would tell me how nice it was and how he thought I would enjoy life at Parkland. That put the idea into my head. After that, my daughter and I toured Parkland and we liked everything that we saw. That was the beginning of it.

When I moved in, I found out that I had a close friend here. I used to do her hair when I was a hairdresser at home. It was wonderful. When I walked in and saw her here, I was so excited. When I saw her bubbly face, I thought, “wow, just what I needed.” This has just turned out perfect.

What activities are you involved in?

I’m busy from the time I jump out of bed in the morning. I do my exercise at our Harmony Wellness classes and by the time I’m finished it’s lunch time. I used to exercise in my day, but I had gotten away from that. I’m back exercising again which is so healthy for me.

I usually go to the bingo game on Tuesdays. I haven’t played bingo for years but it’s such a fun thing. I like to attend the entertainment downstairs. We always have very talented entertainment and we all love it. There’s always something going on. I couldn’t keep up with any more activities.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering coming to Parkland?

I would say that you couldn’t ask for anything better. You are going into a new place and have to get used to new people, but they treat you in such a friendly way and make each day a happy one. I find everybody very friendly. They couldn’t do enough for me. What more could a person ask for?

Thank you, Kay, for sharing your story with us. We’re so happy that you’re happy!

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