10 Jan 24 - Resident stories
It’s wonderful to say bon voyage to upkeep
“I loved the idea of having a villa in the village that I could lock up and leave whenever I wanted.”
“One of the main reasons I moved to Summerset was because I wanted to escape the never-ending gardening and upkeep. My dream was to do more travelling and meet some new people along the way. I loved the idea of having a villa in the village that I could lock up and leave whenever I wanted.
What I didn’t account for was meeting Gloria. Both our spouses had recently passed, and our paths crossed at exactly the right moment. Life’s funny that way, I guess, but our friendship wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t decided to join this wonderful community of people in the first place.
Our next big trip is all around the top of the South Island. Gloria is especially looking forward to visiting the swing bridge at Reefton, where she holds some dear childhood memories. We can’t wait.”
— Ian
“Everyone here is so open and generous, and welcoming.”
“I remember the day when I was sitting in Summerset’s café on my own, crying my eyes out. My husband had recently passed, and Ian came up to me and kindly asked if I was okay. Then he came back the next day and the next day after that. My life changed right there. We became great friends, and next thing you know, we were travelling around the country in Ian’s fancy camper, going on these amazing road trips.
I guess that’s what was so wonderful about moving to Summerset. There’s always somebody looking out for you here. Being somewhat of a private, quiet person, I didn’t expect this at all, but everyone here is so open and generous, and welcoming. I might have trouble getting around these days, but with Ian’s help and such caring staff, I can still enjoy so much of life.”
— Gloria
More resident stories
Read Hans' story · Read Rose's story