We Help Residents Revisit Their Passions

 Our employees go above and beyond to make magical experiences happen every day by welcoming any opportunity to help a resident do something they love. Beth Sturr put this into practice by making it possible for a resident to participate in a 5K.

As Beth works with residents in Assisted Living and Memory Care at StoryPoint Rockford, she is always searching for ways to help our residents feel joy and pride in their lives at any given moment. She spends her time getting to know their passions — which is exactly what led her to take a resident named Mary on a unique journey. Beth knew that Mary used to love running marathons but had to stop in 2006 at the age of 65. Beth had the brilliant idea to bring this joyous experience back into Mary’s life by wheeling her through the 20th Annual Mitchell’s 5k Run/Walk Thru Rockford. During the race, the crowd of spectators were cheering Mary’s name, and she never stopped smiling and waving at them during the entire trip. After the 5K, Beth asked Mary’s husband, Jay, how he felt the race impacted Mary, to which he said, “I’m absolutely delighted. It was such a large and well-attended race. Mary has been flying high ever since. She got her self-esteem back!” Not only did this ignite memories of her running days, but it helped Mary feel appreciated and respected by a crowd of smiling people. Beth could not have asked for a bigger win that August day.

 

“To be able to share in Mary and Jay’s joy that day was such a blessing. It brings me great joy to help others see that no matter where you are in life or what abilities you have, there are always opportunities to contribute, share love and find new purpose in life.” – Beth Sturr