Although Bruce Wright celebrated his two-year anniversary of moving into the Penfield Green House Homes this past August, his St. John’s story began almost 10 years ago. In 2015, Bruce’s older brother Mark, who had been living in the Rochester area with his family and practicing law for almost 30 years, recognized that their mom Shirley could use more support for herself and for Bruce, who has had cerebral palsy since birth.

With the intent to bring both Bruce and Shirley to the Rochester area, who were then living almost two hours away in Dryden, NY, Mark immediately thought of St. John’s. “St. John’s was one of the first places that popped to mind,” says Mark. “I talked to the pastor at church, who said ‘thumbs up–St. John’s is about as good as it gets’.”

Initially, Bruce and Shirley moved into St. John’s Meadows together. Mark lovingly recalls his mother saying “this is too nice,” when she first saw the apartment, to which he told her, “no, it’s just nice enough.”

Shirley lived with Bruce in their two bedroom apartment in Chestnut Court for a few years before the onset of dementia. The developing challenges Shirley experienced with the disease ultimately led to her needing a higher level of care. While Bruce continued to live at St. John’s Meadows, Shirley moved into St. John’s Home for about a year before ultimately residing in House 65 of the Penfield Green House Homes, just next door to House 75, which Bruce now calls home.

Bruce remembers his time at St. John’s Meadows as being very happy. He liked the sense of community and took part in many of the recreational activities offered there, citing Bingo and Jeopardy as his favorites. “I miss it in some ways,” says Bruce.

Life at House 75 has also brought Bruce many joy filled days. Spending time in the garden courtyard, which connects the two green house homes, reading sports books, and going on outings, are just some common activities he enjoys. Recently he and fellow residents went into the nearby town of Fairport for ice cream.  With his brother Mark also living nearby, Bruce gets to spend a great deal of time with family members.

Perhaps one of the most important aspects for both Bruce and Mark is the residential model itself. “The green house is the best concept for a nursing home you can find,” says Bruce. “It feels like home.” Mark echoes Bruce’s sentiments noting “it would be nice if every place was like this.”

Citing the meals cooked to order, having favorite food items stocked in the refrigerator, and large private rooms with discrete health equipment, Mark calls the green house “a hidden jewel.” Bruce adds that “The staff are outstanding. We are blessed to have them.”

And, one could certainly argue that Mark and his family have had enough experience with senior living and long-term care to make a qualified assessment. “As a family we have taken advantage of everything St. John’s has to offer,” says Mark, who notes that between his brother, his mother, and his mother-in-law, the family has experienced every level of service in the St. John’s system of care except assisted living.

As an avid sports enthusiast, Bruce also knows the importance of having loyal fans. His favorite teams are the Mets and the Buffalo Bills, which he hopes can “bring it” this season. St. John’s is certainly honored to have the Wright family among its fan base.

After an almost 10-year history,  it is nice to hear Bruce say, “It’s always been good since I have been here.”