Published in the Orchard Park Bee
Orchard Park, NY – Ernie Clark, Fox Run at Orchard Park Community Member and former NFL Detroit Lion, was able to get to the source of his lifelong passion when he had the opportunity to visit New Era Field for a football game. Fox Run’s culture is all about living retirement life to the fullest. With the help of resources from the administrative team, Ernie was able to spend a day on the field meeting the players and coaches, and watching a game from a suite.
Ernie is originally from the WNY area and was also featured in the 1968 movie called Paper Lions as well as a popular workout video. With football and sports being such a great influence on his life, he was clearly the best choice to take advantage of this one-of-a-kind opportunity. The part that made it even more special – the visiting team was the Detroit Lions.
The group which included Ernie’s grandson, Bill (Fox Run CEO), Dolly (Case Manager), and Dan (Nurse), met up at Fox Run to head over to the game together which is less than a mile from campus. They started their day right down on the field with the players and coaches. Ernie represented his former team wearing a Lions hat and jersey.
“I could tell he was observing every detail of what was happening. It was amazing to get him down to something he feels passionate about. When I checked in with him at one point, he just looked at me with a bit of a tear in his eye and replied – it’s a good day.” – Dolly
All involved expressed sincere enjoyment of the entire experience. Community Members at Fox Run are encouraged to spend time doing the things they love. Offering daily, weekly, or even one-of-a-kind opportunities to truly enjoy life is ingrained in the makeup of the Fox Run lifestyle – Ernie’s day is a stellar example of just that.
