75-year-old Jenny Keen recently bought a new apartment at Marlborough Lodge in Kidlington, in search of a fresh start after the loss of her husband. She has quickly immersed herself in the Lodge’s busy social scene, and it’s helping her to maintain her zest for life. Daughter Nicky credits the move with helping her mum to stay young at heart and she’s delighted to see her so happy.
Jenny says: “I was looking for a safe, welcoming community in a modern apartment and that is just what Churchill offers. The apartment is well finished, there is maintenance and support on hand, and our lovely Lodge Manager Yvette has been wonderful in helping me to settle in. The communal areas create a really sociable atmosphere and we have lots of organised social occasions, so I have met a lot of new friends since coming here."
“I was apprehensive on what my new beginnings at Marlborough Lodge would be like, as I had a very active social life before my move. However, I needn’t have worried! We have plenty of regular get-togethers, and even a weekly keep-fit session with Yvette. Or we can simply come down to the Owners’ Lounge in the evening and wind down with a glass of wine.”
She adds: “We celebrate birthdays and other special occasions throughout the year with music, food and drinks. And my favourite event to date was Cocktail Making, something that was new to me and tremendous fun!”
Daughter Nicky regularly drops in to join her Mum for the social occasions, and she’s been reassured to see her settle in so well. Nicky says: “My brother and I were both involved in the decision for Mum to make a fresh start here and we both supported the move, which went very smoothly. She’s always been a very sociable person with lots of energy, so she found it difficult being all alone in her old house where she had so many happy times with Dad. They had an amazing life together, but now it’s time for the next chapter, and she is embracing it so well. We love knowing she has people around her and it’s nice to see her so happy.”
When Jenny isn’t busy socialising, she volunteers at the nearby John Radcliffe Hospital, where she helps out on the maternity ward three days a week. It’s an impressive testament to her continued energy and willingness to use her skills and experience to help others.
Jenny sums it up well, saying: “I’m determined to continue living the life I love, having plenty of fun, staying busy and helpful. I’ve always been young at heart, and Marlborough Lodge is helping me to stay that way.”