#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench

Reflecting Back: Royal Hamel — Faith, Presence & the Power of Compassion

In honour of the 10th Anniversary of #ElderWisdom, we’re reflecting back on a deeply moving episode featuring Royal Hamel from The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener — a man whose faith, resilience, and compassion continue to inspire everyone around him. First introduced during the Schlegel Villages Operational Planning Conference in Niagara Falls (Bonus LIVE Episode), Royal later joined hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle on the Green Bench to share his journey following the sudden onset of paralysis that left him paraplegic. Despite this life-altering change, Royal speaks with gratitude and hope, grounded in his 50-year ministry as a pastor and unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. His reflections shine light on the healing power of presence, storytelling, and community. Today, Royal continues to minister to others at Winston Park, offering comfort through preaching, Bible studies, prayer, and warm conversation — reminding us that purpose can be lived out in many forms. “Compassion is something children learn best when they see it modeled.” – Royal Hamel “When we share our stories, we give others permission to share theirs.” – Royal Hamel Royal also writes regularly on his blog, touching the lives of many through messages of encouragement and faith. 📘 Read more from Royal: facebook.com/royal.hamel This encore episode is a testament to resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s remarkable capacity to redefine purpose in the face of challenge. 🎧 Listen back and let Royal’s words remind you of the transformative power of compassion. Learn more at elderwisdom.ca [https://elderwisdom.ca]

Reflecting Back: Diane Dupuy — Imagination, Inclusion & the Legacy of Famous People Players

As we celebrate 10 years of #ElderWisdom, we’re reflecting back on an extraordinary conversation with Diane Dupuy, founder of the internationally renowned Famous People Players — a groundbreaking black-light theatre company where all performers are developmentally disabled. Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcomed Diane to the Green Bench to explore the profound bond she shared with her mother, Mary Thornton, who lived to be 103 at The Village of Humber Heights. Mary recognized Diane’s imagination from a young age and nurtured her gifts, encouraging her to create, dream, and express herself through puppetry and performance. “My mother built me a puppet theatre when I was a little girl. She told me not to be afraid, as the puppets will do the talking for me.” – Diane Dupuy “As long as your imagination makes the world a better place.” – Mary Thornton Famous People Players is built on this foundation of creativity and compassion. By using black light technique, Diane ensured the focus was always on the art — not the disabilities of her performers — allowing their talent, hard work, and magic to shine. With support from fellow Humber Heights resident Freida Griffiths, Diane expanded the company’s educational programs, touching countless lives through performance, mentorship, and opportunity. Diane and Evelyn also share personal reflections on navigating cancer, offering wisdom about resilience, hope, and continuing to move forward even in the hardest moments. From puppetry to global stages, from mother-daughter creativity to decades-long advocacy, Diane’s story is a testament to imagination, inclusion, and love. 🎧 Listen back and be inspired by Diane’s vision, Mary’s wisdom, and the magic of Famous People Players. Learn more at: famouspeopleplayers.com Discover more at: elderwisdom.ca [https://elderwisdom.ca]

Reflecting Back: 80 Days, 7 Continents, Unlimited Wisdom — The Adventures of Sandy & Ellie

As we continue our 10th Anniversary reflections, we’re revisiting one of the most joyful, energizing conversations ever shared from the Green Bench. In Episode #70, hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcomed Dr. Sandra Hazelip and Eleanor Hamby, two spirited women who proved that adventure has no age limit. In their eighties, Sandy and Ellie set out on an 80-day journey around the world, conquering seven continents and inspiring millions through their infectious curiosity and love of life. From piranha fishing in the Amazon to rooftop views of the pyramids in Cairo, to Antarctica, Asia, and beyond, their stories remind us that courage, friendship, and an open heart create the richest memories. Their message is clear: 🌍 Age is just a number. 💛 Connection is universal. ✨ Adventure is always possible. Whether you’re a traveller at heart or simply in need of inspiration, Sandy and Ellie ignite a reminder that every day holds the possibility of something remarkable. Follow their global adventures: Facebook — Sandy and Ellie Instagram — @aroundtheworldat80 TikTok — @aroundtheworldat80 YouTube — aroundtheworldat80 Twitter — @aroundtheworldat80 Website — aroundtheworldat80.com 🎧 Listen back and ask yourself: What is YOUR dream travel destination? Learn more at elderwisdom.ca [https://elderwisdom.ca]

Reflecting Back: Caring, Compassion & Courage with Joyce Stankiewicz

As part of our 10th Anniversary reflections, we’re revisiting a powerful and deeply human conversation with Joyce Stankiewicz, formerly of New Hamburg and now a resident of The Village at University Gates in Waterloo. Hosts Doug Robinson and Erin Davis welcomed Joyce to the Green Bench to share her experience caring for her husband Bill through dementia, her insights on compassion, and the meaningful buddy system that helps new residents feel at home at University Gates. With wisdom shaped over 70 years of marriage, Joyce speaks candidly about the difficult moments — including the conversation about giving up driving — and the importance of forgiveness, humour, and memories that sustain connection through change. She also helps listeners understand Nonfluent Variant Primary Progressive Aphasia (nfvPPA), the form of dementia her husband lived with, and gives heartfelt advice to anyone caring for a loved one. “If you have a problem and cannot find out how to solve it, then get someone to help you solve it.” – Joyce Stankiewicz “The buddy system connects someone who knows the Village with someone who is just moving in.” – Joyce Stankiewicz “A comfort to be able to talk about it and to know others share your pain.” – Joyce Stankiewicz Joyce reminds us that wisdom often comes from empathy, shared experience, and community — values at the core of #ElderWisdom. 🎧 Listen back to Joyce’s moving episode and let her words bring comfort, perspective, and hope. Learn more at elderwisdom.ca [https://elderwisdom.ca]

Reflecting Back: Bob & Emily Leland — Positivity, Connection, and the Pursuit of Passion

As part of our 10th Anniversary reflections, we’re revisiting a heartwarming episode with Bob and Emily Leland from The Village at University Gates in Waterloo — two remarkable individuals whose positivity and passion continue to inspire. Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle invited Bob and Emily to share their outlooks on life, their love of people, and the joy they find in every day. From laughter and kindness to community and creativity, their conversation reminds us of the power of staying curious and connected. ✨ Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ The Power of Positivity – Bob believes in making people smile every day. His philosophy reminds us that laughter truly is contagious and kindness always matters. 2️⃣ The Joy of Connection – Emily shares her love of being with people and the deep fulfillment found in meaningful relationships. 3️⃣ The Pursuit of Passions – A beautiful reflection of Schlegel Villages’ own Pursuit of Passions initiative, celebrating the hobbies and dreams that bring purpose to life. “The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders.” – Ron Schlegel 🎧 Listen again and let Bob and Emily’s conversation inspire you to spread positivity, nurture connection, and live your passions. Learn more and explore the Pursuit of Passions Exhibit at schlegelvillages.com/popxew [https://schlegelvillages.com/popxew]. Discover more at elderwisdom.ca [https://elderwisdom.ca]