A bright new day

One resident at Mount Hope is reflecting on a life full of music, love, family and finding joy in unexpected places. At 84, Fern McNab calls herself “a healthy, happy woman,” grateful for every day and every memory that’s brought her to where she is today.

“I wake up and am thankful for every new morning,” she says. “Then I put a smile on my face and say, ‘It’s going to be a great day.’”

She is especially grateful for the donor-funded therapeutic programming at Mount Hope for helping her stay active and optimistic. As part of this year’s Season of Celebration campaign, donors will help fund essential programming across St. Joseph’s sites to make these uplifting experiences possible for people like Fern.

A musical beginning

Born in the Ottawa Valley, music was her first love and her first language.

“I was born with it,” she says simply. “A great musical talent and a good voice.”

She began singing at age 11, and by 15, she was already appearing on television in Sherbrooke, Quebec. One year later, she cut her first record.

And while music shaped her career, family shaped her heart.

“Being a mother is my greatest achievement,” Fern says proudly. “And now, I’m a grandmother. Eight beautiful grandchildren and I adore every one of them.”

Finding connection at Mount Hope

When her care needs started to change and the time came to transition into long-term care, Fern admits she was reluctant.

“I didn’t want to come to Mount Hope. Honestly, I don’t think anyone wants to at first,” she says. “But after just one week, I felt completely at home.”

What was supposed to be a one-month stay became permanent and soon bloomed into something incredibly positive.

The staff, she says, are what make it feel like home.

“I receive such good care here. The staff wake you up with a smile, they care, they listen. And the donors make so many programs possible, so we have wonderful things to do here.”

Fern is not one to sit still. She’s a member of the Resident Council and Food Council, helping to suggest new dishes and improve the dining experience. She volunteers for barbecue fundraisers, pizza sales and community events.

These activities are part of a range of therapeutic programs designed to nurture well-being, connection and joy for residents like Fern. Thanks to donor support, these programs provide meaningful ways for participants to stay active, express themselves and build lasting relationships.

Recreational therapy brings Fern moments of joy and connection. She lights up whenever her Therapeutic Recreation Aide (TRA), Rusty Tedball, plans something new for her to enjoy or tells her about new programming.

Besides these donor-funded programs, Fern plays games, sings in the Mount Hope choir and even knits hats and headbands for the personal support workers. She is also passionate about helping new residents feel welcomed and supported, often greeting them in the halls with a smile and a listening ear.

“I try to lift others up,” she says. “It’s important that everyone knows this is a wonderful place.”

A grateful heart

Now, each morning, Fern greets the day just as she always has – with gratitude and positivity. She has found comfort in the familiar rhythms of Mount Hope and she remains active, sharp-minded and eager for each new adventure.