(May 2, 2025) – For the past 18 years, George Taylor and his wife have called Lake Prince Woods home. In 2021, their paths diverged slightly when George’s health needs required him to move into the skilled nursing unit, while his wife remained in assisted living. Although just a short walk apart, the distance between them has often felt far greater.
Now 97, George is confined to a wheelchair and unable to transfer into a car, which makes outings rare and complicated. Still, the former Army Colonel and proud Korean War veteran remains sharp, full of stories, and deeply devoted to his wife of 70 years.
One afternoon, during a conversation with Donna Franklin, Activities Coordinator at Lake Prince Woods, George shared a simple but heartfelt wish: to take his wife out on a date—something they haven’t been able to do in quite some time. Donna immediately recognized this as the perfect opportunity for the Grant a Dream™ program.
An initiative of the EveryAge Foundation, Grant a Dream™ empowers older adults to relive meaningful moments or fulfill long-held dreams—no matter how big or small.
For George, that dream was a visit to the MacArthur Memorial in Norfolk, Virginia, a museum he holds close to his heart. During his 20-year career in the U.S. Army’s Judge Advocate General Corps, George served with distinction and later donated his uniforms to the museum. The MacArthur Memorial honors General Douglas MacArthur and the millions who served under his command, welcoming more than 75,000 visitors each year.
Now, thanks to the EveryAge Foundation, George and his wife will enjoy round-trip transportation to Norfolk, a special lunch, and a VIP tour of the MacArthur Memorial—a chance to revisit a meaningful chapter in his life and to share that journey with the woman who’s been by his side through it all.
“Being able to help George reconnect with his past and his partner in such a special way is what Grant a Dream™ is all about,” says Donna Franklin. “This isn’t just about a trip—it’s about rekindling love, honoring legacy, and giving someone the dignity of a dream fulfilled.”
To support Grant a Dream™ and help bring more dreams to life, visit everyage.org/foundation/#Planned-Giving.
For program details or to nominate a resident, participant, or tenant within the EveryAge family, contact Kim Kilday, Chief Marketing Officer, at [email protected] or 828.465.8014.
Grant a Dream™ is proudly funded by the EveryAge Foundation.