At The Concorde, it does not take long to notice Wally Reid. At 98 years old, he makes a point of greeting people throughout the day in the dining room, in the hallway, or when someone new walks through the doors.
“I talk and greet everyone every day and at every meal.”
Nearly three years ago, Wally moved to The Concorde. It did not take long before the people around him began to feel familiar.
“Three weeks after I was here, I knew I belonged because everybody treated you so good. It was a homelike feeling, and I did not feel like a stranger at all.”
Since then, Wally has filled his days by joining in and spending time with the people around him. He plays shuffleboard, sings at happy hour, joins games, and heads out on outings whenever he can.
“What has always mattered most to me in friendship and community is a genuine connection and joining in.”
Meeting people has always been part of Wally’s life. Over the years he held many different jobs, including driving a semi trailer for HY Louie in Vancouver for about 21 years before later working with the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers for more than 20 years.
“I always enjoyed meeting people along the way.”
Friendships have grown naturally at The Concorde.
“There are four of us guys that live here and we are all the same age for one month but then I am the oldest after my birthday.”
Wally is also known for helping others in small ways. When residents head out on the shopping shuttle, he sometimes goes along just to help fellow residents, loading their purchases onto his walker and bringing them back to their suites.
Moments of care between residents also stand out. Wally remembers one in particular when he spent time in the hospital.
“A resident from the Concorde brought me a card. I have never seen so many signatures on a card in my life. There was no space for another signature.”
“Well, because of my age, I do not know how long I have left and the people here make living worthwhile!”
For families who hope their loved one will find connection in a retirement residence, Wally has a simple message.
“Well, if it is a place like the Concorde, I would say you have no better place in which to move into because they are so good here, they keep you active I have never been in a better place.”
“It is all about having a good relationship with people.”
