“They expect to see me in a hospital gown!” says Virginia as she delicately adjusts her brightly coloured blazer. We’re sitting down to chat about her experience in long term care. She and Paige, her life enhancement assistant, colour coordinated their outfits for the occasion. Virginia loves fashion and says she dresses up every day.
Virginia has lived at Kensington Gardens for nearly ten years and remains independent. She’s also passionate about reading and writing which is where The Gardens Resident Monthly Newsletter comes in.
“I started to write when I was little. I like to ask people, ‘What’s the funniest thing you ever saw?’” It’s a great icebreaker and even has us stumped for a good answer when we think about it. When we ask Virginia the same question, she giggles as she admits she too can’t think of something right away.
For years, Virginia has used her column not only as an outlet for her own creative process, but also to get to know and celebrate residents and staff. In her latest column, she profiles a fellow resident who used to work as an accountant but has always made time for art.
Virginia’s favourite written pieces have been lovingly taped to her room door where she proudly shares them with everyone who passes by.
Life Enhancement assistant Paige says it was becoming difficult to keep up with Virginia so she now uses the Notes app on her iPad to help Virginia bring the column to life. With the touch of a button, Virginia can easily record interviews and comments which are then transcribed and published in the monthly newsletter.
Virginia’s column is more than a creative outlet – it’s a bridge between generations, a celebration of individuality, and a reminder that every resident has a story worth sharing. And thanks to a little tech help from Paige, those stories will keep shining.
