A Life of Love, Faith, and Joy: Celebrating 20 Years with Grace Hartz with a Q&A Interview at Lawrence Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center

Early Life and Memories

Grace, it’s an honor to sit down with you today. Let’s start with your childhood.

Can you tell us a little about where you grew up and what your family was like?

Grace Hartz (GH): My mom worked in a superior dry goods store, and my dad walked by and saw her in the window. He fell in love with her, and they got married. I was raised as an only child in a three-story apartment.

What are some of your favorite memories from your youth?

GH: I loved going on day trips, especially the Hudson River Cruise. That’s my favorite memory.

How did you meet your spouse, and what was your married life like?

GH: My husband and I went to the same high school and church, and our families were friends. I saw his picture and said, “I’m going to marry him.” But he was engaged at the time, however, after Pearl Harbor, when he was in Okinawa, his fiancée broke up with him because she thought he wouldn’t make it. When he returned, and I found out he was available, I went for it. I was 21 when we got married.

Moving to the Senior Living Center

What motivated you to move to our senior living center over 20 years ago?

GH: I was taking care of my husband with dementia, and I couldn’t do it anymore. We promised each other we wouldn’t put each other in a nursing home, so in 2004, we moved in together. It was a miracle that there were two openings here at Lawrence, as there was usually a two-year waiting list.

How did you feel about leaving your previous home and starting a new chapter?

GH: At first, I was sad, but I was happy I wasn’t a trouble to my family. I used to say, “I don’t have to cook or do laundry anymore.” But I still made my own bed here to help my CNA.

What were your initial impressions of the community, and how did it feel to adjust to a new environment?

GH: I loved being part of the community. It was a big change, but I was happy to be here.

Life at the Senior Living Center

What do you enjoy most about living here?

GH: I loved being vice president/president of the resident council, being an active part of the community, and participating in arts and crafts, specially making suncatchers. I also loved going to church with Randy on Wednesdays.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience you’ve had during your time here?

GH: My husband would play bingo and come down and give me all his winnings. He’d tell me I had beautiful lips.

How has the staff supported you, and what do you appreciate most about their care?

GH: Carmen, who delivered clean clothes, befriended me and would bring me silk flowers every Mother’s Day. Ron Lee, the head of PT, would give me Christmas presents. The PT department would buy me earrings for my birthday. Wesley from housekeeping is my favorite, and I love him. I’ll tell my family, “Don’t wipe my tray; Wesley will do it.” Abrahim, the nurse, is also very special to me. I wait for him to come on his 3-to-11 shift.

Reflections and Insights

What do you think has been the key to your longevity and happiness?

GH: My “go with the flow” attitude and my faith.

How has your outlook on life changed over the years, and what wisdom can you share with others?

GH: Accept your situation and make the best of it.

What do you believe sets our senior living center apart from others, and why do you feel it’s been a good fit for you?

GH: The people and staff. They’re all so wonderful.

Are there any specific staff members or volunteers who have made a significant impact on your life, and how?

GH: Randy from activities, Ebony, Carmen, Ron, Wesley, and Ibrahim have all made a significant impact on my life.

Personal Growth and Achievements

What are you most proud of accomplishing during your time here?

GH: I’m proud of my crafts, especially my suncatchers. I built a little Christmas scene and was proud of it.

Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show that always brings a smile to your face?

GH: I love Christmas movies! I watch them all year round.

Are there any fun facts or surprises about yourself that you’d like to share with our online audience?
GH: I have a Christmas watch and wear a new Christmas shirt every year. I also love going to Pub Ice Cream and Boston Market. Michaels Diner (now PJ’s Pancake House) was a favorite spot for a nice meal around the holidays.

It was an absolute pleasure talking to you, Grace. Your story is an inspiration to us all, and we’re so grateful to have you as part of our community. Here’s to many more years of joy, love, and happiness!