Resident of the Month

Born in Jamica, Queens NY, Karen spent her youth frolicking the streets. As a teen the family moved to Commack, NY. Karen and her friends volunteered at the local CP Center every summer, as counselors to disabled children. Karens’ love of helping others started to grow. As an older teen Karen became a Candy Striper for two years earning a 200-hour pin. After high school Karen entered Pilgrim State Hospital School of Nursing at the age of 17. Upon graduation, wanting to enter the military, she needed 2 years of work experience as an RN. This is where Karen met her future husband. In 1979 Karen received a direct commission as a 2 LT in the Army Nurse Corp. It was an exciting life. nd In 1980 Karen and her husband Tom married and in 1982 their son Robert was born. Juggling family life and military had its challenges. In 1991, Karen left the Army and returned to school to obtain a master’s degree as a Nurse Practitioner. Again, civil service called her, and she became an NP in a jail medical unit in Riverhead, NY. Karen found another exciting career. Upon retirement Karen and her family moved to Florida. Wanting to be creative Karen learned to play the viola. She joined the local community orchestra where she played for 20 years. Having strong organizational skills, she joined the board of directors and served in many positions. Life being what it is, her husband passed in 2009. Her son Robert decided he wanted a change in location, so off to Greenville they went in 2023. Karen wanted to be part of a community. After a search, she chose Legacy Reserve. Being one to jump into activities, she is active in crafts, local trips and the Veteran’s group. You see Karen and her dog Emily in the halls talking to everyone. Karen is so glad she chose Legacy Reserve. She feels at home, among friends.