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Both Becky’s and Marilyn’s passion for gardening began in childhood. Marilyn and her twin sold vegetables around the lake in summer. Becky eventually earned a degree in horticulture. Their paths eventually led to Royal Park Place, each under different circumstances. Both women discovered that, despite the challenges of aging and health setbacks, gardening provided healing, beauty, and purpose. …

He’s grateful for the support that helps him stay independent, from everyday comforts to the activities. “It’s not just about the convenience,” he says. “It’s the people who make this place feel like home.” …

Royal Park Place residents have a history of prioritizing brain health. Many residents have already embraced the Dakim Brain Fitness program available to residents on the campus computers. This year, Life Enrichment Director Carrie Fahey started a new program to help keep brains sharp: Wits Workouts, a brain health resource tool developed by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champlain Extension Program.…

When Harley moved to Royal Park Place, staff explained to him that his apartment was in a wing named “Sonshine Street.” Harley says the name is fitting. “It’s such a sunny place. Almost immediately, I became part of this special bond there. We have such a beautiful atmosphere."…

The delicious meals at Royal Park Place were a big reason why Gene and his wife Shirley chose to move here. As they aged, planning and preparing meals had become more difficult. “Knowing we could have our meals provided here was a huge consideration,” Gene says.…

Tom was pleased to see that both of his parents loved Royal Park Place, despite their very different personalities. “My mom was an extrovert. My dad was an introvert. They both had what they were looking for,” he says. “And all of this was so much better than them living on their own.”…