Real Stories from a ThriveMore Community
Potential Residents Hear Firsthand What Life Is Really Like at a ThriveMore Community
Potential residents recently had the opportunity to hear directly from those who know life in a ThriveMore Life Plan Community best —the residents themselves. Five Brookridge residents participated in an online panel hosted by the Brice Pointe team, sharing candid stories about their decision‑making process, the transition to community living, and what they've come to appreciate most about Brookridge.
The panel was part of an event designed to introduce prospective Brice Pointe residents to ThriveMore’s values, history, and approach to providing exceptional senior living. Hosted by Brice Pointe’s Helene Quiñones, the conversation highlighted both the practical and the deeply personal reasons residents chose Brookridge, and why they are glad they did.
“It felt like coming home.”
One theme surfaced repeatedly throughout the panel: the feeling of warmth and welcome that residents experienced from the very beginning.
For Xavier “XL” Beard, the decision came down to something simple but significant — how Brookridge made him feel the first time he visited.
“It just felt like you were coming home,” he said. “It was that comfortable feeling.”
XL was the caretaker of the family and wanted to make a responsible plan for himself as he aged. Moving to a Life Plan Community was, for him, a proactive choice to ease the burden on his daughter and ensure a seamless plan for future care.
“I kept thinking, I am not going to put my daughter through this,” he said. He’s been happy with his decision to move to Brookridge, a true continuum of care community that will provide care as it’s needed.
Community That Comes Naturally
For Gary and Joyce Orwig, who moved to Brookridge last year, the idea of relocating to a new region without established social connections felt daunting at first.
They didn’t grow up in Winston-Salem and worried people already had their friend groups, Joyce said.
But their concerns quickly faded.
“We met so many people in the first month,” she said. “That’s the biggest plus — the people.”
The Orwigs visited many communities before making their decision. They were struck not only by the beauty of the 46‑acre wooded campus— “country living” with the convenience of city access — but by the genuine friendliness they encountered from both residents and staff.
The Importance of Moving When You’re Still Able to Enjoy It
The residents also encouraged future Brice Pointe members to thoughtfully consider the timing of their transition.
Dean Clifford spoke openly about the emotional and logistical challenges of downsizing — and why moving sooner rather than later made all the difference.
If you wait too long, you may not be able to take advantage of the activities or make new friends, she explained. Moving when you're healthy allows you to build a support system.
Dean values both her independence and the safety net that Brookridge provides.
With upcoming shoulder replacement surgery, she expressed relief knowing care is steps away:
“If I need more help, I can walk right down the hall,” she said. That peace of mind is priceless.
Wellness, Fitness, and the Comfort of Continuum of Care
Brookridge residents highlighted the convenience of having physical therapy, wellness classes, and health services on-site. XL described how meaningful it is not to drive across town for therapy:
“I leave my apartment, walk to the elevator, and I’m there,” he said. It’s warm, it’s easy — and it reduces stress, for both himself and his daughter.
Residents described a robust Wellness program that includes:
- Yoga, balance, and strength classes
- Chair‑based fitness options
- Personalized PT available through the health center
- A highly trained Wellness Coordinator with a background in professional dance
Staff Who Go Above and Beyond
Every panelist had stories of staff members who took extra steps to help — from maintenance teams who insisted on helping residents move boxes, to dining staff who know residents by name, to wellness and nursing staff who check in regularly.
A few moments stood out:
- When the Orwigs returned from a trip with mild COVID, staff sent regular wellness texts to ensure they were recovering well.
- When Dean moved in, maintenance helped her hang an impressive number of pictures with patience and good humor.
- XL described how staff members stepped in immediately to assist him with moving items, hanging curtains, and making sure everything felt settled.
Dining Designed for Choice
Food was another popular topic. Several residents praised the recent shift to a restaurant‑style dining model with expanded options. XL joked about the weight he’s gained since moving in.
Residents noted:
- A talented chef who regularly asks for input
- A resident‑run food committee
- Written comment cards (signed by residents) reviewed at each meeting
- A warm café offering breakfast, lunch, and grab‑and‑go options
Thriving Today and Tomorrow
The panel concluded with questions from prospective Brice Pointe residents, followed by an overview of the new coastal community opening in 2030 in New Bern, NC.
Brice Pointe will offer:
- A 1,500‑acre master‑planned setting within Carolina Colours
- Independent living apartments, villas, and hybrid homes
- Full continuum of care
- A lakeside pavilion, walking trails, fitness and wellness amenities
- Dining venues, social spaces, and modern architectural design
- Priority deposit program, which is now open
As guest Linda Payne shared at the end of the session:
“Thank you all for sharing — it’s been so helpful and welcoming. This whole approach has been wonderful.”
Looking Ahead
With decades of experience, a strong nonprofit mission, and a reputation for genuine, person‑centered care, ThriveMore communities continue to expand to meet the needs of today’s retirees.
Brookridge residents made one thing clear: choosing a Life Plan Community is a decision about quality of life, peace of mind, and surrounding yourself with people and services that help you thrive.
Watch the entire panel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Voy_yfnaJqw