One thing that makes Chartwell retirement residences truly unique places to live is the emotional support one receives from staff and residents upon moving in. Each retirement home has its own special sense of community, where friendships and creativity can flourish.

Chartwell Colonel Belcher in Calgary, Alberta, is certainly one of those retirement communities. It’s where Pam calls home—a resident who has proved to be a true inspiration to everyone around her. Years ago, Pam was told she had Parkinson’s disease. Though the diagnosis came with many daily challenges for her to overcome, she hasn’t let it prevent her from living life to the fullest.

A dancer at heart, Pam is an active member of Dancing Parkinson’s YYC, a fun class hosted by Decidedly Jazz Danceworks in Calgary that provides support to people living with Parkinson’s disease. The class focuses on rhythm, body awareness, coordination and muscle development, and for Pam, it has been an excellent way for her to socialize and follow her passion.

Inspired by Pam’s zest for life, staff and residents at Chartwell Colonel Belcher wanted to show their support for her. They decided to put together a bake sale to raise money for Parkinson’s Canada, an organization near and dear to Pam’s heart.

“Our residents, family members and staff baked cookies to sell at our annual Grand Bazaar to raise money to donate to Parkinson’s Canada,” says Deniece Van Putten, Lifestyle and Programs Manager at Chartwell Colonel Belcher. “Everyone chipped in. Our kitchen staff made cookies and we even set up a group activity so that residents and staff could bake together.”

On the day of the Bazaar, Pam assisted in selling delicious cookies at the table. Thanks to everyone’s efforts, the event was a huge success, with $325 being raised for the great cause. Pam couldn’t have been happier with the support she received from her Chartwell Colonel Belcher family.

To learn more about Chartwell’s Moments That Matter emotional wellness program, click here.