Retirement stories: charity founder and MBE
'I retired from work after being a flight attendant with BA for 39 years,' reveals Patricia Pearce MBE, 'but because I run a charity, Dreamflight, I don’t really feel like I’ve properly retired.’
‘I’ve had a wonderful career and am incredibly proud to still be a part of the Dreamflight family, and of what the children themselves have achieved - they have 37 Paralympic medals between them.’
It's hard work but Pat has more time to spend on the charity now she’s moved into the McCarthy Stone retirement community, Chiltern Place, in Amersham. With her home well-looked after, she has the peace of mind to go wherever, whenever at the drop of a hat.
'What I gain from my charity work is being able to do something for youngsters - and I learn a lot from them too.
'Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean you stop learning. It keeps me mentally stimulated and sometimes that is lacking among older people.'
'I’m involved in several projects at Chiltern Place too, including being an advocate and launching a travel club.
'At some point I might do the "taking it easy style of retirement", but it won’t be any time soon!'
Retirement living was right from the start
'One thing I’ve found since moving in which I hadn’t thought about is that you’re moving into a community, not a block of apartments. Everyone is always around and knows one another which is lovely.’
'Moving to Chiltern Place has enabled me to enjoy spending my time on all my favourite things. I love the fact that there’s always something going on.'
The McCarthy Stone team at Chiltern Place worked closely with Pat to ensure her move was as smooth as possible.‘I loved my old home, which had a cottage feel, but I also love the modern design of my new apartment. I had a Jacuzzi bath in my old home and I thought I was going to miss it, but I actually don’t as my new wet room is ideal. The whole apartment has been well thought out, the kitchen is lovely and the appliances are great. I’ve even got two store rooms.
‘As soon as I moved, it was like shutting the door on one chapter of my life and opening another new and exciting one. I also feel incredibly secure. I came back about half past midnight one night and as I entered the main entrance and the doors shut behind me and I remember thinking how secure I feel walking up to my apartment. It’s nice to know that there is someone on duty 24/7 so that if you weren’t well in the night, you’ve always got someone you can ring.
‘I would say to anyone thinking of moving into a McCarthy Stone development, don’t think twice. Go ahead and do it! I’m the youngest one here so I would say to people, don’t leave it too late. Do it while you are able to enjoy your new lifestyle to the full.’
Like this article? Read more about our homeowners’ inspirational retirement stories, or about homeowners who have enjoyed extraordinary careers, or find more information about the McCarthy Stone lifestyle.
You can find McCarthy Stone retirement homes for sale or rent here.
