Diana – Resident, Canterbury Manor

“The people of the Canterbury Foundation are its greatest strength,” says Diana, resident in Canterbury Manor for the past 12 years. “The staff get to know you by name, they respond quickly and efficiently and are so friendly.”

Diana believes that being a not-for-profit makes a difference in the way the Canterbury Foundation operates. “Profit is not a motivator when decisions are being made, which allows for many options and benefits,” she says. “You can choose to eat in your suite or in the dining room, which has proper table service, and if you have guests they will provide a cot with a mattress and sheets.”

The staff are also very accommodating with residents who encounter a temporary difficulty. “They brought my lunch and dinner to my suite after my knee surgery. I feel extremely well taken care of; from the moment I moved in I felt this was home.”

Diana also enjoys the company of the other residents. “There are so many stories; it’s like a living history book. We laugh a lot, and those of us who have been around for awhile feel very comfortable.” She also credits the activities department for keeping everyone busy, “It’s important to many people who might otherwise feel isolated.”

When asked about the importance of the Court being next door, Diana responds with a smile, “I think we all assume we will go there from the Manor, but I’m not so sure. I guess it depends on what we need at the time, but yes, it is a comfort at some level. Most of us spend more time worrying about our great grandchildren, wondering what kind of world they are growing up in; we don’t spend a lot of time thinking about our own futures.”

NOTE: Since this article was written, Diana has moved into the Court. “The transition was seamless,” she says. “It was only a matter of days and I felt right at home in my new apartment. It was extraordinary.”