Discover the Stories of Our Inspiring Dreamers

Some passions stay with us for a lifetime. Patricia and Walter each received a wish that brought them back to the equestrian world. At 93 years old, Patricia's wish brought her back to the stable, where she spent a special afternoon surrounded by horses and the memories they inspired. Accompanied by her family, she reconnected with a passion that had brought her joy since childhood.

For Walter, the experience was equally meaningful. After spending decades coaching riders and managing horseback riding schools in Ukraine and Poland, he had the opportunity to return to an equestrian setting and share his knowledge with a new generation of riders.

Though their stories were different, both wishes celebrated the lasting impact of a lifelong love of horses. Through these special experiences, Patricia and Walter were able to revisit cherished memories, reconnect with an important part of their identities, and create new moments of joy along the way.

For Élizabeth Rioux, Louise Penny’s novels have long been more than a reading escape. The adventures of protagonist Chief Inspector Armand Gamache and the author’s warm, richly described settings have been a source of comfort, escape, and familiarity over the years.

Thanks to Chartwell Wish of a Lifetime, Élizabeth was able to realize her profoundly meaningful dream of meeting Louise Penny in person.

They met at Café Three Pines in Knowlton, a location intimately tied to Penny’s literary universe, as it recreates the cozy bistro in the author’s fictional village. The pair chatted with the camaraderie of old friends about books, travels, and a lifetime of memories. Louise Penny also generously gifted Élizabeth a personally autographed copy of one of her novels, making the moment even more special.

As a literature lover, Élizabeth has always found peace and comfort in reading. Now, at a time in her life when her eyesight is gradually leaving her, this event was all the more significant.

“I’d like to thank Chartwell Wish of a Lifetime from the bottom of my heart for granting a wish I never thought could come true,” said Élizabeth.

Experiences like this remind us that our lifelong passions can bring us joy, memories, and deeply human connections that give lasting meaning to our stories.

This year, Levenia marked a momentous milestone—her 100th birthday. But rather than a quiet celebration, she set her sights on something bold: ziplining over Niagara Falls.

Adventure has always been part of Levenia’s spirit. A former teacher and Blue Cross employee, she’s lived a life filled with community, family, and activity. She still enjoys walks, shopping, and outings with friends, but for this milestone birthday she wanted to show her loved ones that her zest for life is as strong as ever.

Surrounded by family, including relatives who travelled from her native Nova Scotia, Levenia climbed into her harness, strapped on her helmet, and soared more than 2,000 meters across Niagara Falls on a zipline. The exhilarating ride was a fitting way to celebrate a century of life filled with courage, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Afterwards, Levenia and her family gathered at the Revolving Skylon Tower for a celebratory dinner overlooking the Falls. With sweeping views, shared stories, and a toast to her 100 years, the evening was a perfect reflection of her adventurous heart and the love surrounding her.

Levenia’s story is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to embrace adventure, celebrate milestones in meaningful ways, and inspire those around us with courage and joy.

Raija, who lives in Kitchener, ON, was able to realize her heartfelt wish to host a public art exhibit celebrating her lifetime of creativity and love of painting. For many years, art has been Raija’s passion and a source of joy. She dreamed of one day sharing her work in a professional gallery, surrounded by family, friends, and members of her community. With the support of Chartwell Wish of a Lifetime, that dream became reality at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery.

On the day of the event, the gallery space was transformed into a welcoming showcase of Raija’s talent. A carefully selected collection of her original paintings lined the walls, while floral arrangements and delicious appetizers created a warm and celebratory atmosphere. Loved ones and members of the community gathered to admire her work and hear the stories behind her creations.

The afternoon was filled with pride, joy, and gratitude. For Raija, the art show was more than just an exhibit, it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream and a chance to share her creative spirit. Her wish is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to celebrate our passions, connect with others, and inspire through art.

Sister Nicole Rivard is the embodiment of compassion. Her life has taken her across countries and continents, driven by one purpose: to do good and uplift others. The richness of her global experiences culminated in a deeply personal wish — to write and publish her autobiography.

Sister Rivard spent nearly 40 years between Africa and Argentina, dedicating herself primarily to youth and women. A passionate advocate for justice, she worked tirelessly to combat human trafficking, serving with the CATHII organization (Action Committee Against Human Trafficking Internally and Internationally) and the international network of nuns united in this cause, Talitha Kum — meaning “Young girl, rise.” Today, she continues to champion social justice and women’s rights, standing in solidarity with Indigenous women in their ongoing fight for recognition.

A lifelong writer at heart, Sister Rivard has cherished the opportunity to devote more time to writing in retirement. She enjoys reflecting on her many life experiences and hopes to pass on her story to the next generation — especially her nieces.

“I’ve written a lot with younger people in mind,” she shares. “I want them to understand that happiness is found in how much we give of ourselves.”

Thanks to Chartwell Wish of a Lifetime, her dream came true. With the support of a writing coach and mentor, she dedicated two hours a week for six months to bring her story to life. Her completed memoir was published by Novalis Publishing.

To celebrate, our charity hosted a joyful book launch and signing event, surrounded by family and friends. The room was filled with warmth, celebration, and pride — a moment she will treasure forever.

Lucienne has been a devoted Elvis Presley fan for nearly seven decades. Her dream to visit Graceland — the King’s iconic home in Memphis, Tennessee — remained close to her heart all these years. Her impressive collection of Elvis memorabilia speaks volumes about the passion she’s carried for a singer who profoundly shaped her life.

That long-awaited dream finally came true when Lucienne embarked on an unforgettable trip to Memphis with her daughter, Line. Together, they experienced the ultimate VIP tour of the Graceland Mansion and explored the legendary Sun Studio, where Elvis recorded his very first song. They even stopped by Gladys’ Diner to enjoy Elvis’s favourite treat — a peanut butter and banana sandwich!

“It’s truly a dream come true!” said Line. “My mom used to say that once she experiences this, she can leave this world in peace. Hopefully, she won’t take her words too literally! You can’t imagine how significant this is for her, so thank you to the team.”

For Lucienne, this trip was far more than a sightseeing adventure. It was the realization of a lifelong wish — one that carried her through life’s challenges and milestones. She now hopes her story will inspire others to hold onto their dreams, as the music and spirit of Elvis continue to live on in her heart.

Lise Paré, a resident of Chartwell Trait-Carré, has dreamed of attending Les Grands Ballets Canadiens since she was very young. During her youth, she spent most of her time in dance classes, learning such varied styles as ballet, flamenco, and Scottish dance.

Lise’s wish to see the dancers of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens live on stage symbolizes a profound reconnection to her first love. Despite facing a bone disease that held back her dancing aspirations, she kept her passion for ballet alive.

“It’s a dream that I’ve nourished for several years. Practicing ballet was for me a very interesting, cultural, enjoyable, and enriching activity,” Lise shares.

Lise worked for a school board as an executive secretary, but she was dedicated to much more than her career. She cared for five children with Down syndrome in addition to her own two daughters. She also served on the boards of directors of a women’s solidarity organization and a Charlesbourg aid organization for socially isolated low-income women.

The Chartwell Foundation fulfilled Lise’s dream, granting her the opportunity to see Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in a magnificent production of Cinderella at Place des Arts in Montreal. She was accompanied by her daughters who were pleased to share this experience with their mom. “Without you, we wouldn’t be here after all. It’s a beautiful gift and a beautiful work of art... Thank you very much,” says Lise’s daughter Chantal.

Lise was all smiles as she reveled in what is sure to become a cherished memory. “I’d like to say thank you, a huge thank you, a thousand thanks to The Chartwell Foundation. I’m not 75 years old tonight. I’m 15 years old.”

Raymond embodies resilience and unwavering dedication. His life took an unexpected turn when he lost his sight in a car accident. Despite the physical and emotional challenges that followed, he held tightly to a meaningful dream — to one day attend a bagpipe concert. The soulful sound of the instrument became a source of deep comfort to him in the years following his accident.

“I listen to music a lot — it puts me in my own bubble,” Raymond explains. “In those moments, I forget a little about my condition. Even if I can’t see, I’m able to make a video in my head.”

Witnessing his growing passion for music, Raymond’s wife, Louise, was determined to bring his wish to life. She wanted to show him that, even without his sight, he could still experience wonder and beauty in unforgettable ways.

Thanks to Chartwell Wish of a Lifetime, Raymond and Louise were treated to the stirring sound of bagpipes performed by the Black Watch — Canada’s oldest Highland regiment. The special performance took place during a moving ceremony at the regiment’s historic armoury in Montreal, filling the space with music and emotion. The experience left Raymond with a heart full of gratitude and a smile he couldn’t hide.

“Everyone has within themselves the possibility of making a wish come true,” Raymond shared — a powerful reflection on his inspiring journey.

If you can’t attend a Blue Jays game, you can always bring the Blue Jays to you! In honour of Evelyn’s 102nd birthday, the die-hard Blue Jays fan received a birthday celebration she won’t soon forget.

Evelyn has been a Blue Jays fan for many years. “I remember watching the World Series and I’ve seen the Blue Jays play in the snow years ago,” she says. She has fond memories of staying up late as a child to watch and cheer on her beloved home team. But it wasn’t until 14 years ago that she really got into the game. Now, her niece calls her daily during the season to keep her up to date on game times, ensuring she doesn’t miss a game.

The centenarian dressed in blue for her Blue Jays themed birthday celebration, which was attended by family, friends and fellow residents. She enjoyed Blue Jays themed cupcakes and balloons and even received some special swag from the team, including a letter, signed baseball and a personal message from one of the greatest Blue Jays players of all time, Joe Carter.

Thanks to Chartwell Wish of a Lifetime, Evelyn’s 102nd birthday was a day she will always remember. “It’s marvellous. I’ve never had anything like this before,” she said.

Imagine being able to travel back in time with your partner to the very place where you first fell in love. For Eileen and Alex, that place is the bleachers of the football stadium, watching the Hamilton Tiger-Cats more than six decades ago.

Shortly after meeting, Eileen invited Alex to a Tiger-Cats game — and that’s where their love story began. One of their fondest memories is from 1969, when Eileen proudly marched in the Tiger-Cats parade, surrounded by cheering fans who had supported the team for generations. The streets were electric with passion, and the moment left a lasting impression.

Over time, however, things began to change. On the last day they attended a game at the stadium, mobility challenges made it difficult to get around. That day, they made the heartbreaking decision to give up their cherished season tickets — tickets Eileen had held since she was 16 years old. Letting go of that tradition marked a significant shift in their lives, and they have felt the absence of it ever since.

So, when asked if they had a wish of a lifetime, their answer came easily: they longed to attend one more Tiger-Cats game, together.

That wish came true. Surrounded by their son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter, Eileen and Alex returned to Tim Hortons Field to cheer on their beloved Tiger-Cats — and to celebrate the enduring love that started in those very stands. The team still represents not just a shared passion, but the beginning of everything they’ve built together since.

“I can’t thank Chartwell Wish of a Lifetime enough,” Alex shared, his heart full.