Have you ever experienced a magical event from a distance, but never had the chance to participate yourself? For Pat, 87, resident at Chartwell Carrington Place in Vernon, B.C., it is the magic of floating through the air with ease on a hot air balloon.
Since moving to Armstrong, B.C. in 1994, Pat has had the opportunity to go on many adventures, which includes zip lining for her 80th birthday. However, her first memorable experience in Vernon was at the Winter Carnival in 1995 where she drove down to Swan Lake to watch the Hot Air Balloon Glow. Ever since then, she has been enamored with the thought of going on a hot air balloon ride and found herself in Vernon every winter just to watch them again during the carnival.
After watching the 1956 movie “Around the World in 80 Days”, Pat had a renewed desire to try new things and experience new adventures. Her husband at the time, Syd, had been in a hot air balloon before but didn’t enjoy the experience and could not bring himself to do it again. As a result, Pat’s wish went on the backburner for many years while life was busy with kids and work. As time went on after her retirement, the adventure felt even further from her reach.
Thanks to the Chartwell Foundation, on February 4th, Pat was able to finally experience the feeling of floating in a hot air balloon, fulfilling a dream she has had for over 25 years! “Floating in the air, looking out at the beautiful scenery is a life-long wish of mine, and I thank Chartwell for the opportunity of a lifetime,” Pat said.
