If you think senior living is all about quiet afternoons and routine, think again.
At The Courtyards at Mountain View, the spotlight was on Jean M. during LGBT History Month in October 2024, whose blend of mechanical genius and lighthearted nature has made her a standout resident. Over the past year, Jean has turned everyday life into a spectacular show of humor and heart, proving that assisted living can be both lively and liberating.
Jean’s journey from Minneapolis to Denver is nothing short of inspiring. Her early fascination with mechanics led her to serve as an Air Force mechanic, where she honed her skills and developed a reputation for solving problems with ease. Now, at The Courtyards at Mountain View, she’s the go-to gal for everything from mechanical mishaps to spontaneous pranks—like the time she turned a simple walk into a giggle-fest with a piece of toilet paper trailing behind her.
For Jean, life at The Courtyards is about independence and connection. “Nobody tells me what to do,” she says with a smile. “I really like this place. This is going to be my forever home.”
LGBTQ+ Advocate and Proud Lesbian
Jean’s story isn’t just about pranks and mechanical know-how; it’s also a powerful tale of resilience and authenticity. From an early age, Jean knew she was different. “I was in 3rd grade when I bought a fudgesicle for a girl,” she recalls, realizing her attraction to women.
Growing up as a lesbian came with challenges. “Telling the guys I didn’t like them in that way was tough,” Jean says. She also recalls the unequal treatment she faced at home, like receiving dolls for Christmas while her brother got GI Joes and toy guns. But Jean never let society’s expectations dictate how she lived her life. “I was always comfortable being me. It was everyone else who thought I wasn’t normal,” she shares.
Jean has seen the world transform for LGBTQ+ people. “Once the gay movement happened in California, it seemed that women could come out,” she notes, recognizing pivotal moments like the Stonewall riots, which she sees as tearing down barriers. “Since Stonewall, it seems that the wall has come down,” Jean says, pointing to the increasing acceptance and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community.
Words of Wisdom and Advocacy
Throughout her life, Jean found support through strong female friendships, standing up for other women, and mentoring those who needed guidance. Her journey of self-acceptance is a testament to the power of being true to oneself. “Always be yourself. Don’t let others’ views of you change how you view you,” Jean advises. “You should love one another the way they are and who they are.”
For Jean, advocacy has been a natural extension of her life experience. “I’ve stood up for other women and took them under my wing,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community.
Jean’s advice to younger generations is simple but profound: “Be yourself.”
Celebrating Jean at The Courtyards
At The Courtyards at Mountain View, Jean is celebrated for her vibrant personality and knack for bringing people together, whether through humor, acts of kindness, or sharing her life story.
“Jean is like a burst of sunshine and a Swiss Army knife rolled into one,” says Meghann Ziegler, Executive Director at Courtyards at Mountain View. “We’re so glad to celebrate her and the joy she brings to our community.”
Jean’s journey is a powerful reminder that life in senior living can be filled with laughter, love, and unwavering authenticity, inspiring us all to embrace our true selves.
Living Authentically at The Courtyards
For more information about The Courtyards at Mountain View or to schedule a tour, please contact our Denver team.