Community Corner
95-YEAR OLD BEATRICE SPEISE, LONG-TIME ARTIST, REDISCOVERS HER TALENT AT HIGHLAND PARK NURSING & REHAB CENTER
HIGHLAND PARK, IL (FEBRUARY 2013) – Beatrice Speise, who will be 95 years old this March, has rediscovered her artistic talent thanks to Highland Park Nursing and Rehab Center (HPNRC). A life-long artist, Speise spent some 20 years teaching art classes throughout Chicagoland. As age found her unable to continue due to various circumstances, she has been inspired again as a resident of HPNRC.
As visitors and employees of HPNRC will testify, Speise’s artwork is a sight to be seen. Her most recently completed piece hangs proudly in her room and has a constant flow of admirers. According to Lynn Faber, Activities Director, “Mrs. Speise came to an art activity class, and as I was explaining how to mix colors, she just went off on her own and started layering colors to make this beautiful fall foliage painting. She is a natural artist!”
Find out what's happening in Highland Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Mrs. Speise’s work not only exemplifies the creative, hands-on programming at HPNRC, but it was she who inspired the Center to take an individualized approach to activities. “Every resident has different needs and interests,” says Faber. “I look for things that get them excited and want to get out of their rooms. It’s these classes that expand their horizons, and help them find a niche that they like and look forward to.”
Find out what's happening in Highland Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
HPNRC offers an array of activities including painting, crochet & knitting, and jewelry making; all with the hopes of expanding the programs even more. Mrs. Speise’s art collection includes paintings, handmade jewelry, holiday cards, and intricate modeling clay pieces.
“I didn’t think my fall foliage watercolor was so special, until people started telling me how beautiful it was! I was so proud,” says Speise. “Then the other day I just had this itch to do something with my hands, so I picked up my lipstick and a piece of paper and made this lovely Valentine.”
The amazing amenities, professional one-on-one attention, and full schedule of activities at Highland Park Nursing & Rehab make this a one-of-a-kind home away from home; a tranquil place that provides comfort and trust that assures loved ones they are in good hands.
ABOUT HIGHLAND PARK NURSING & REHAB CENTER
Nestled away in a quiet neighborhood, Highland Park Nursing & Rehab is the ideal place for short-term rehabilitation and long-term comfort alike. The newly remodeled facility features beautiful amenities and landscape, making it a premiere rehab facility on Chicago’s North Shore. Residents are treated more like family with amazing hospitality, fine food, and luxurious amenities. Most importantly, Highland Park Nursing & Rehab prides itself on aggressive rehabilitation, with its highly skilled health care team of physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and dieticians. HPNRC is located at 50 Pleasant Ave. in Highwood, IL 60040. For more information, call 847.432.9142, or visit their website.
