Myrtle Oaks is a 99-unit apartment complex for low income elderly. Myrtle Oaks also offers programming and activities to enrich the residents’ lives.
Collette
“When I first came here, this wasn’t my home.
With the help of others it became my home.”
Imagine a pilot soaring through the sky, punching holes in the clouds with her aircraft, climbing higher and higher into the heavens. This pilot has over 40 years of experience. Her senses are trained and her skills are honed. She is fearless in the sky as she glides over the earth, thousands of feet above the rest of us. Would it come as a surprise to learn that this pilot is a 70-year-old grandmother?
Collette has been flying planes since she earned her license in the 1950s. Her hobby is not the only thing that is spectacular about Collette. Her passion, socialbility and independence distinguish her from others. She is spry and as autonomous as ever. Her home at the Myrtle Oaks apartment complex has allowed her to stay that way.
Collette was among the first residents to move into Myrtle Oaks. “When I first came here,” she said, “this wasn’t my home. With the help of others it became my home.” Collette is one of the friendliest, most outgoing, and frankly, most popular people around. What is her secret? Is it that effervescent smile that seems to always be on her face? Those that know Collette can confirm: you’d be hard-pressed to ever find her not smiling. Her grin is addicting; just one look at her and you can’t help but smile yourself.
Collette has become something of an avid gardener. At Myrtle Oaks, she planted orange and cumquat trees, and numerous plants and shrubs. Aside from growing things for her enjoyment, Collette will personally present her fellow residents with potted plants as gifts. Her gestures are always about making her friends’ days just a little bit brighter.
Collette has made many friends at Myrtle Oaks, and the closeness and love they have for each other has created for her a new home.
