At Harrogate…I Have the Best of Both Worlds.

Meet Marie Marcolla

This Month’s Spotlighted Resident

Marie Marcolla met her husband, John, at a church dance.  “We’ve been married 68 years, and we still love listening to music together.  The concerts here at Harrogate always puts smiles on our faces.”

Marie and John lived in Staten Island for many years, and Marie’s parents lived right next door.  “The whole family transplanted from Brooklyn to Staten Island, so for almost 30 years, we were Staten Island people,” said Marie.  “When John retired, we thought we should move out of the city.  We had friends that moved to a 55+ community in Tom’s River, NJ.  We liked what we saw, so we moved there.  Another twenty years went by in a blink, and suddenly I’m 80 and John is 84, and we started thinking that we should live in a community where there is support…because you never know.  We took care of my parents as they aged, so we understood how quickly things can change.  We moved to Harrogate ten years ago, and I am so glad we did.  John has had some serious health issues where he ended up in the hospital, and it was so convenient to have him discharged from the hospital straight to Harrogate’s rehab center.  He gets the care he needs, and I can easily visit him every day because I can just walk to the health center from my apartment.”

John’s health issues progressed, and he was diagnosed with vision loss and dementia three years ago.  “John needs acute care that I can’t give him, but Harrogate has the care team in place to meet all his needs,” said Marie.  “We spend time together every day.  Occasionally I will visit my children and grandchildren, and I never worry about John because I know he’s in great hands.  We’re both very fortunate to live at Harrogate.  I have the best of both worlds here — my husband has the care he needs, I have a full life, and we are still together.”

Marie is very active at Harrogate, and makes the most of her day.  “I love the Harrogate campus.  It’s absolutely beautiful,” said Marie.  “To be honest, I specifically chose Harrogate for the indoor pool.  Playing pool volleyball with friends is always fun.  I also play in a bocce group on Saturdays.  I love being part of the Harrogate chorus, and always look forward to performing in the Spring and Christmas shows every year.  All of the concerts, activities, and trips at Harrogate are terrific.  My favorite activity is the wine & cheese dance parties.  I dance every chance I get!  It’s really the people here that make everything fun.”

Marie’s latest excitement is that her beautiful apartment is getting a big makeover.  “I’ve lived here for 10 years, and Harrogate said they’d like to temporarily relocate me and upgrade my apartment,” said Marie.  “How lucky am I!  They are putting in new carpet and flooring, new granite countertops and appliances, new shower doors, and new paint throughout.  The works!  It says something when the community upgrades my apartment free of charge to make sure I live in a space that brings me joy.  This is why I love Harrogate.  They always want the best for their residents.”

We’re so glad to have you and your husband as part of the Harrogate family, Marie.  Your sunny personality brings everyone joy!