For 83-year-old Nancy Lykins, the chance to go skydiving had always been at the top of her bucket list. Known for her adventurous spirit, Nancy has lived a full life. She spent her career as a medical assistant and transcriber, raised three children, and still enjoys the company of her rescue dog Lily.
She’s a thrill-seeker at heart — roller coasters and motorbikes have never intimidated her — but skydiving remained the experience she had always longed for. Through the StoryPoint Troy community’s Dream Big initiative, that lifelong wish became a reality at iFLY Cincinnati — with her family and fellow residents cheering her on every step of the way.
The idea started to take shape when residents in the community were asked to share any unfulfilled dreams they had. Nancy spoke up immediately to let the group know skydiving was at the top of her list. Soon after, the StoryPoint Troy team began working behind the scenes to make it happen. They coordinated with her family and planned the experience as a surprise.
“Nancy lit up when we told her,” said Alyssa Via, Life Enrichment Director at StoryPoint Troy. “It was all she spoke about for almost a month prior. Seeing her accomplish something so meaningful was so incredible! Watching our residents take on such amazing opportunities is why I do what I do every day. We will always say yes to our residents’ wild ideas — even if it means getting a little creative.”
“I’m so excited someone wanted to make this happen. I want to feel free,” Nancy shared before the big moment. And that’s exactly what happened. Dressed in a flight suit and helmet, Nancy entered the wind tunnel. As the air lifted her off the ground, the room filled with applause.
After her flight, Nancy was on cloud nine. “It was a great experience,” she said, officially crossing skydiving off her bucket list — though she added that zip lining might be next. Nancy’s skydiving experience was part of the Dream Big initiative, which turns resident dreams into reality using donations raised through the Dream Big Fund. Past dreams have included a food fight, a ride in a B-25 Mitchell Bomber, and a day at a motor speedway.
Nancy’s story is one of joy, boldness, and the incredible support of a team that believes life only gets better with age. That philosophy drives the teams at StoryPoint Group communities around the country to make dreams come true for residents.
Shine Every Day At StoryPoint Group Communities
Residents like Nancy Lykin are what make StoryPoint Group communities such a special place to live. Whether you or your family member hopes to skydive, dance or ride motorcycles, our Life Enrichment Directors will be there to help each and every resident make the most of their days. For more information about how you can be a part of the StoryPoint Group family, visit the community nearest you today or call 1-844-275-9990.
Schedule a tour at StoryPoint Troy to experience a community where dreams really do take flight.
