Lots to Love About Life at Fox Run

When Phil Rauch thought about retirement, he envisioned a packed calendar with activities, club meetings, and new friends.

Since moving into his maintenance-free residence at Fox Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Novi, Mich., two years ago, he's been busy working out, joining clubs, and connecting with neighbors--everything he wanted for his next chapter.

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Recently, Phil sat down with the Tribune to share his experience and how he knows he made the right decision.

Tribune: What led you to choose Fox Run?

Phil: I chose Fox Run because it has so many amenities and activities. The other continuing care retirement communities I looked at had almost no activities, and that just didn't appeal to me.

Tribune: How has your maintenance-free residence impacted your life?

Phil: It's freed up a whole lot of time--and money! When something needs to be fixed, like my refrigerator or dishwasher, I contact the General Services team, and they come and repair it at no cost. If it can't be fixed, they'll replace it with a new one for free.

They're really efficient too. If I call on a Monday morning, they're here in the afternoon. You don't get that kind of service when you live in a house.

Tribune: What are some ways you've gotten involved on campus in your newfound free time?

Phil: I have a background in science, so I really enjoy the astronomy club. I often research more about the topics that have been presented, which stimulates me to learn. I also enjoy the history club, as they bring in outside speakers, many of whom are college professors. It's fascinating.

I use the on-site fitness center, which is packed with exercise equipment that works every muscle in your body. I've even worked with a certified fitness instructor for one-on-one lessons. Before I lived here, I joined a local gym, but I didn't stay with it. Here, I do because it's so convenient.

I participate in laughter yoga as well. It looked like it would be helpful to me because I have some breathing issues, and it does help with that. But it's also so much fun. The kid in me has been able to come out and laugh!

Tribune: Is it easy to meet people and make friends at Fox Run?

Phil: My late wife, Kathleen, was our social organizer. She knew our neighbors and would set everything up.

Once I moved to Fox Run, I had more opportunities for connection. I've made so many friends here through activities, discussion groups, and having dinner [in the restaurants], and I continue to meet people. People stop me to chat all the time. These are opportunities I didn't have living alone in my old house. It's made a big difference in my life.

Tribune: Are there any other amenities or conveniences you appreciate?

Phil: I'm a pretty healthy guy, but when I first got here, I scheduled an appointment at the medical center so they knew about me and my health background. It's nice having it here.

I also like having a pharmacy right on campus where I can get my medications. I tend to pick them up myself because I like talking with the pharmacist and the assistants, but if I wanted or needed to, I could call and have them delivered to my home. It's so much nicer than when I had to leave my house and drive somewhere to get them.

Lastly, it's such a relief not to have to pay so many bills anymore. I don't have to worry about if I remembered to pay the utility bill or the water bill because it's all included. Once a month, the payment automatically comes out of my bank account.

Tribune: How do you know you made the right decision to move to Fox Run?

Phil: Moving to Fox Run has been the best decision I've made since choosing to marry Kathleen back in 1976. The residents I have come to know and the clubs and activities that have given me the opportunity to have fun and continue to learn new things have all contributed to my happiness. Everything has exceeded any expectations I might have had before making Fox Run my new home.

To learn more about vibrant, carefree senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Michele Wojciechowski