A new chapter together: Bonnie and Willis Fry’s journey to Monarch Landing
Three years ago, Willis Fry made a life-changing decision to move to Monarch Landing senior living community in Naperville, Illinois, with his wife Bonnie. It wasn’t a decision he made lightly, but it was one made with love, foresight, and a deep commitment to Bonnie’s well-being.
The couple relocated from their home in Utica, prompted by Bonnie’s progression into Alzheimer’s disease. For years, Willis had lovingly cared for Bonnie at home with help from in-home caregivers. The couple also maintained their routine of spending winters in Florida as long as they were able. But as Bonnie’s condition worsened and her ability to make decisions diminished, Willis recognized that they needed more support.
“I knew something had to be done,” Willis shared. “My kids were probably worrying about me as much as they were worrying about her.”
Their daughter, Amy, took the lead in researching senior living communities, and Monarch Landing stood out. It felt like the right fit for everyone. Bonnie moved into the memory care neighborhood, while Willis settled into a patio apartment on the terrace level — just a short walk away from Bonnie’s residence.
Now, Willis visits Bonnie every day at lunchtime. “The care has been excellent. I’m very, very pleased,” he said, adding that one of the key draws was the on-site medical care. “There are doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and even lab services. That really appealed to me.”
While Bonnie receives expert and compassionate memory care, she still finds joy in music, a comfort that remains with her. Knowing she is safe, and content allows Willis to stay active and engaged in his own right. He’s embraced life at Monarch Landing, joining the resident advisory committee, helping to recruit and welcome new residents, and cultivating friendships that have enriched his life.
“We’d never considered moving to a senior living community before,” Willis admitted. “But this was a good move for us.”
He finds joy in simple pleasures like tending to a small garden. “I learned to enjoy cooking while we were still at home. Now I cook for my friends every once in a while,” he said, adding that he and his pals sometimes trade recipes.
Willis also values the vibrant social atmosphere at Monarch Landing. “Happy hour is amazing to me,” he said. “People come in and visit.”
Though he uses the fitness center — “not as much as my daughter, who I call my surrogate mother, would like,” he said. Willis appreciates having the option, along with the sense of purpose that comes from being involved in the community.
Perhaps one of the most meaningful roles Willis plays at Monarch Landing is offering support to other residents navigating the emotional transition of moving a loved one into memory care.
“People will send residents to me who are trying to process the transition. I have no problem talking to them,” he said. “This is my experience — you just can’t do everything yourself. Their loved one will be getting better care than they can provide.”
Willis’s story is one of courage, resilience, and love. With Bonnie well cared for and surrounded by compassion, and with Willis active, supported, and confident about their future, their move to Monarch Landing truly marks a hopeful and affirming new chapter in their lives.
“This was a good move for us,” Willis said simply. And in those few words, there’s peace, relief, and the deep comfort of knowing they’re exactly where they need to be; together.
Monarch Landing
Monarch Landing is a Life Plan Community located on a scenic campus in Naperville, Illinois-named “one of America’s best places to live and retire” by Modern Maturity, and “the best city for early retirement” by Kiplinger. Monarch Landing offers independent living, promoting a vibrant lifestyle for active seniors. The Springs at Monarch Landing offers memory supported assisted living, respite care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing services, thus providing complete continuing care for seniors. Monarch Landing is owned by Senior Care Development and managed by Life Care Services. For additional information visit www.WelcomeToMonarchLanding.com or www.TheSpringsatMonarchLanding.com.