Betty and Cecil enjoyed many years as a married couple. They shared everything, and as they entered their golden years, several life events set them back. Cecil suffered from heart disease and had three heart attacks; Betty was diagnosed with osteoporosis and took a bad fall from a step stool.
Their children decided that it was time for them to move to a place that would see to their needs as they faced aging and health issues. They decided that Fox River Apartments – a service of Caritas Family Solutions – would be the perfect fit for Betty and Cecil. The assisted living facility is located on five acres in Olney and provides meals, housekeeping, social services, and daily assistance to low-to-moderate income seniors who are not able to care for themselves.
In April 2012, Betty and Cecil became official residents of Fox River and began the next phase of their lives together. Betty smiles as she remembers how they attended activities together and enjoyed visits from their children. However, the reality of heart disease was always present for Cecil, and in July 2013, it won the battle.
With Cecil gone, Betty was faced with the decision to stay at Fox River or to look elsewhere. She decided that Fox River was home and that the family-like friendships she and Cecil had established were strong. Her one-bedroom apartment is decorated with paintings completed by her late husband along with a picture of him that greets her each and every day. Betty enjoys attending the book club and church services at Fox River, and she takes pride in walking a mile each day and staying active with the help of the staff.