At CHCC, we find it a profound honor to care for individuals who have lived rich, complex lives, weathering life’s storms with resilience and embracing each moment with gratitude. Our residents are living fountains of wisdom shaped by a lifetime of experiences.
CHCC staff and volunteers love hearing their stories and words of wisdom, and we think you will, too! Below is a summary of a few recent resident spotlight interviews, which we publish monthly.
What is one life lesson you learned from your parents?
Hank H.: “From my father, I learned the invaluable lesson of leadership. He was not only my best friend but also my biggest inspiration. By watching and learning from his actions and words, I understood how true leadership is about integrity, responsibility and leading by example.”
Bobbin W.: “From my parents, I learned to never give up.”
Sunny S.: “Be yourself and give it all you’ve got!”
Nan T.: “They taught me to be honest and try my best.”
What is the one thing that you have been most proud of in your life?
Hank H.: “One thing I am most proud of is a strong relationship with my seven siblings. Growing up as the middle child, I often looked up to my older brother and sister for the care they provided and the adventures we undertook. Despite the usual rivalries, we always managed to get along and supported each other through thick and thin. This familial love and unity are what I hold dear. I am also extremely proud of the family my wife and I have built. I am proud to be a father and grandfather to such extraordinary kids.”
Bobbin W.: “I am most proud of my family. I have one daughter who has been blessed with six children and 11 great-grandchildren!”
Sunny S.: “I have been most proud of my family. I have a crazy, wild family, and we have had so much fun! Every day was like a new episode of ‘Where’s Waldo’.”
Nan T.: “I am proud of teaching 1st grade on the south side of Chicago during the time schools were being integrated. I chose to go to one of the hardest schools to work in, teaching there for seven years. It was very hard at times, but I know that I made a difference in those kids’ lives.”
What is one piece of advice you would give a 16-year-old person?
Hank H.: “My advice to a 16-year-old is something I’ve shared with my grandson: always make friends wherever you go. I believe that friendship is an essential part of life and your support system. Friends provide encouragement and companionship through life’s ups and downs. They are the ones who stand by you, celebrate your successes and help you through those tough times.”
Bobbin W.: “Endure, things get better!”
Sunny S.: “Be yourself and follow your dreams!”
Nan T.: “I would tell them to be honest and try their best. And you can always strive to improve yourself.”
You can learn more about the life experiences of CHCC residents by reading spotlight interviews on our website.