Video displaying scenes from Rydal Park and Waters, a Life Plan Community in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania

Dr. Haren and Dr. Pratima

Sharing Their Gifts and Generous Spirit With the World

When you look up the definition of “doing good in the world,” the names Dr. Haren and Dr. Pratima are right up there. Both have committed their lives to a journey of public service and giving back to others who are less fortunate.

Dr. Haren is a renowned vascular, trauma and general surgeon and was the medical director of three hospitals in the Philadelphia area, and his wife, Dr. Pratima, is an ophthalmologist with cornea transplant as a subspecialty. She was on staff at the world-famous Wills Eye Hospital. 

“We were both raised by parents who lived by a generous philosophy of selfless work for others, so we are honoring their legacy by helping to make the world a better place,” Dr. Pratima says. 

At the young age of 60, both Dr. Pratima and Dr. Haren had accomplished so much in their careers, serving the Frankford, Philadelphia community, but knew they needed to do even more. So, they decided to step outside their comfort zone and do more for their native country of India. They returned to India with the intent to donate services and expertise to help the poorer populations in Shamlaji. 

Since 2003, they have been offering free healthcare services to more than 100,000 people in 100 villages. They also offer free plastic surgeries and 350 free cataract surgeries monthly. They actually purchased a hospital back then and converted it to a more modern health care facility.

Dr. Haren recalls the first free cleft palate surgery they performed on a young girl from a nearby village. “I remember her parents being so relieved and happy as she was getting teased about her looks. We recently tracked her down and found out that she’s doing well and has plans to become a nurse. These are the type of stories that makes my heart happy.” 

“We like to say that we didn’t choose Shamlaji, it chose us,” Dr. Haren adds. 

Dr. Haren and Dr. Pratima manage the hospital remotely but travel to India six months out of the year to volunteer their time and expertise. 

Dr. Haren lights up when he tells you how they helped to establish the first ambulance service in the state of Gujarat. “We knew we needed to do something as people didn’t have the means to get to the hospitals quickly enough,” he explains. “After much research, establishing guidelines and talking to the government, we now have reliable ambulances, an emergency number and an EMS app. And the best part is that all ambulance rides are free.”

The incredible dedication and work of Drs. Haren and Pratima has been recognized with the prestigious Spirit of Philanthropy award presented by Frankford Health Systems. For those who know them, including their new neighbors at Rydal Park & Waters, the award couldn’t be more justified. 

“The people we have met at Rydal Park & Waters are so welcoming, and the community offers so many opportunities to recharge our minds, bodies and spirits. And that does us good which, in turn, allows us to do more for others.”

Stan and Jackie

Leadership Comes in Many Forms

In the wise words of Warren Buffett, “In the world of business, the people who are most successful are those who are doing what they love.”

This sentiment couldn’t be any truer for Stan as he has embarked on not one but four careers to date. As a recognized thought leader and influencer, Stan — the former CEO of a global chemical and engineered glass materials company — is a nationally syndicated columnist for the Philadelphia Business Journal and the author of “Be Different! The Key to Business and Career Success.” His mission is clear: to help others be successful. “It’s important to me to give back to others and share whatever knowledge I can to help other business leaders be successful,” Stan says. 

To say Stan and Jackie are active in the greater Philadelphia community is an understatement. Stan has served on numerous public, private, private equity and nonprofit boards and is currently the vice chairman of the board of trustees of Drexel University and a board member and chair of the finance committee at Saint Christopher’s Hospital for Children. Jackie and Stan also sponsor a third-grade class in Northwest Philadelphia every year, helping the students take local field trips and purchase classroom supplies. “It always feels good to give back,” Jackie shares with a smile.

Once they saw the beautiful cottage options at Rydal Park & Waters, the move there was a done deal. “Whether it’s for work or pleasure, it’s also nice to know that if we choose to, we can walk to the Rydal train station and be in Center City, Philadelphia, in less than 30 minutes,” Stan says.

“We could have moved anywhere, but we decided Rydal Park & Waters was the right decision for us,” Jackie adds. “We are people who embrace so many aspects of our life. Whether we are working out at the local gym, spending time with family, working or volunteering, we wanted a place that was low maintenance but had the space and beautiful amenities that we desired in this next chapter of our lives. Our grandchildren especially love visiting the clubhouse!”

With a nod of agreement, Stan adds, “We have no intention of slowing down, so living at Rydal Park & Waters has given us the gifts of time and convenience, which are priceless to us. Who knows what hobby or career we will take up next? Only time will tell.”

Joel

Living Life to the Fullest

When Joel decided to move from Rochester, New York, to Rydal Park & Waters after his late wife, Dottie, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, he found much more than quality care for Dottie. He found a community of people who supported him as a caregiver and then rallied around him as he transitioned to living on his own as a single person. 

“That was a difficult time for me, but with the help of nearby family (Joel grew up in South Philadelphia) and the new friends I have met at Rydal Park & Waters, I am thriving and genuinely living my best life,” Joel says.

Joel has always tried to stay active but has seen a real difference in his fitness regimen since moving to the community. He works out regularly with the Rydal Park & Waters certified personal trainer and participates in weekly group exercise classes, such as Essential Strength, Flex & Balance and Trail Blazers. He also picked up a pickleball paddle for the first time and was hooked immediately.

“Playing pickleball not only has improved my balance and increased my stamina and strength but has given me a social outlet. It’s a game that brings people together. I helped to coordinate matches with residents who have also learned to love the game and enjoy a little competition like me!”

And while Joel loves the camaraderie and competition on the pickleball court, he also enjoys planning hiking excursions with friends at local parks and trails, including Pennypack Trail, Alverthorpe Park and Wissahickon Trail. “It’s a great way to meet people, chat and exercise all at the same time.”

Joel realizes the benefits of pushing his physical limits to stay active and fit but also knows the importance of stretching his mind and helping others do the same. Back in Rochester, Joel was a volunteer with the NPR/PBS affiliate, WXXI, and helped to create the TechAge Adult Computer Learning Center. At the center, he taught older adults about internet safety and how to use their computers and mobile devices. He continues to manage the TechAge website remotely and now offers free tech support at the Abington Township Public Library, steps away from Rydal Park & Waters. He also really enjoys presenting tech talks to his fellow community residents.

“Living at Rydal Park & Waters has given me a new lease on life, and I am grateful for all the people, new experiences and the memories I am making every day.”

Barbara and Carole

Double the Zest for Life and Double the Fun

Since they were young girls, music and dance have been an integral part of Barbara and Carole’s lives. They recall singing children’s songs with their mother, who sang to them in several languages, and they say this has come in handy when they have traveled to various parts of the globe. They can sing in over 15 languages. 

When traveling, Carole says, “It’s fun to see the people’s reactions when we start singing a song in their native language.” 

Barbara and Carole, who are identical twins, grew up knowing in many ways that they were unique. However, they have always embraced their individuality while cherishing their close relationship. 

After college, Carole and Barbara formed a singing group, The Songspinners, with two other women. Their voices were a perfect blend of harmonies, and they performed on broadcast telethons and in churches, synagogues and other venues from Atlantic City to the Main Line.

Thankfully, the sisters brought their love of music to Rydal Park & Waters. And just a month before moving to the community, Carole led a Christmas singalong program featuring carols from around the globe. Carole and Barbara have also started a singalong group for residents. 

Barbara and Carole also stay active by doing folk dancing three to four times a week. Carole plays guitar at the singalongs, and Barbara plays the Irish drum with a contra dance band several times a month. And when the weather is warm, they can be seen fishing at Green Lane Park. 

The sisters also love to paint, and their pictures adorn their apartment. Carole loves woodworking and creating ceramic pieces. They also write poetry and have set many of their poems to music. 

“We love being at Rydal Park & Waters.”