The building and decoration of the new nursing wing at Resthave Retirement Home, 408 Maple Avenue, in Morrison, IL, is completed. All that awaits is for the 70 new private rooms to be filled with residents who eagerly anticipate their move.
Marketing Director Karla Burn said, “People have picked their own place, based on their needs and wants….Some want to watch the ‘comings and goings’ at Resthave; others wanted a courtyard view or a view to the train tracks. Still others preferred no sun or a view of the farmland nearby. We tried to accommodate their preferences.”
The migration to the new wing beg[an] on Tuesday, February 10, 2015.
Marilyn Herrick, at left, is one of residents who first watched the building of the Assisted Living [wing] and now the completion of the wing into which she will move. Marilyn has been a resident of Resthave for six-plus years.
Marilyn Herrick, at left, is one of residents who first watched the building of the Assisted Living [wing] and now the completion of the wing into which she will move. Marilyn has been a resident of Resthave for six-plus years.
After her husband died, Marilyn moved to Morrison in 1991 from Ticonderoga, NY, where she had lived all her life, to be near her daughter and family. After moving to Morrison, she worked as an activity aid for eight years at Resthave. She now is an active participant of the offered activities: games, discussions, Bible study, and the wide variety of programs presented by members of the Community.
“Resthave is a second life to me,” stated Marilyn. “I have plenty to eat, plenty of activities to keep me busy, and all I need. I have a normal life.” Marilyn is anxious for her private room. “You share a room with a sibling growing up and a spouse if you are married. However, I do not want to share a room at the age and stage of my life. I want my privacy.” So, Marilyn and all the residents who share a room now are counting days to the move into their own space, complete with their pictures, knick-knacks, televisions, etc.
Ironically, Marilyn’s daughter and husband retired to Tennessee. “They asked me to come with them, but I wouldn’t know anyone. My friends are here. Besides, there is no comparison to Resthave!”