Norma and Buck have been married for over 65 years. Their family shared with Cindy that Norma had once planned a special party for their 50th anniversary but due to unforeseen circumstances it had to be pushed off. With their daughter’s help, Cindy and the Branch planned a surprise anniversary party complete with a band who played Norma’s favorite songs “Star Dust” and “In the Garden”. Both songs that Norma had picked out for her original party over 15 years ago. Norma and Buck still thank Cindy every time they see her for her part in making it all happen

Recently Jim lost his beloved wife and companion while living at Bickford. He always said his wife was the glue of their family. They traveled the world together and had many camping trips. Together they raised their kids and cat “Angel Baby”. After her passing, Lisa and Patty wanted to do something very special for Jim as he transitioned into a smaller apartment. So they framed larger copies of some of his favorite pictures and hung them up in his new apartment while he was away one day. When Jim saw what Lisa and Patty had done for him he was brought to tears.

After Peggy received news from her family that her son had passed away, she went into a depression and refused to come out of her room. Kathy contacted Peggy's daughter and asked if she could have one of Peggy’s son's shirts to make something special. Kathy used the shirt to sew a special teddy bear for Peggy who became very emotional when Kathy gave it to her. Peggy now has a special place for the bear in her room or when she is having a difficult day she puts it into her walker and takes it with her where ever she goes.

In 1964, Bob won a gold medal in the 5,000 meter race at the Tokyo Olympics. Even after Bob moved into Bickford in November 2020 he insisted on doing a daily run. Bob is so proud of his Olympic accomplishments that the BFMs decided to have a Bickford Senior Olympics in his honor. The day started with an Opening Ceremonies parade around the Branch with Bob leading the way holding the “torch” and jogging. Several residents, BFMs, children and family members joined in by wearing red, white and blue. We closed the ceremony with a Middletown city fire truck. Afterwords we celebrated with a wonderful meal shared by all, including some of Bob’s former teammates who came from out of town. Bob was recognized by our local newspapers and TV news stations. It was an outstanding event and Bob could not have been happier with all the fun surrounding him and his accomplishments.