Page 5 - SOH_10_24

The Story of Rose’s HouseBuy 2 Bundtletsand get one FREE One per visit. Expires 10-31-24SAN ANTONIO-STONE OAK 700 E Sonterra Blvd San Antonio, TX 78258(210) 495-2253Mon-Sat: 9:00am - 7:00pm Sun: 11am - 3pmORDER ONLINE! WE DELIVER!NothingBundtCakes.comBy Sonny MelendrezWhat began as a simple act of kindness has blossomed into a life of profound purpose for Phil and Pat Gonzales in Northwest San Antonio.When their next-door neighbor, Rose Hamilton, suffered an illness that was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and no family by her side, Phil accompanied Rose to the hospital in the ambulance, offering the comfort of a friend in her time of need.From that moment on, the Gonzaleses became Rose’s caretakers, helping her with doctor visits, grocery shopping, and providing steady, loving support. Their bond grew stronger as they walked with her through some of life’s toughest moments.After Rose passed away, her grown children awarded the sale of her home to Phil and Pat. Instead of selling it for personal gain, the couple chose to transform it into a haven for others.Ironically, the purchase was made a month before Pat’s own breast-cancer diagnosis. (After successful surgeries, with Phil’s unwavering support, she is now a survivor.)Using his skills as a property manager and handyman, Phil worked to renovate Rose’s home and offer it, for an affordable fee, to cancer patients and their families traveling to San Antonio for treatment.As word of the couple’s selfless project spread, donations of furniture, appliances, and other essentials poured in from generous donors.Now, three years later, Rose’s House has welcomed over 65 guests and their caregivers, from as far away as British Columbia, Hawaii, California, and many states across the U.S., offering them not just shelter, but a peaceful, private, little house of healing.A recent entry in the “Warrior’s Journal” by a grateful cancer patient captures the spirit of Rose’s House-- “I don’t look back on my surgery and those ten days with fear or resentment. I think of how welcoming that home was during the hardest time of my life.”Phil and Pat Gonzales’ story is one of ordinary people doing extraordinary things, proving that the power of compassion can transform lives. What started as a kindhearted gesture to a neighbor has become a legacy of love, not just for Rose Hamilton but for the many lives touched by Rose’s House. Their unwavering commitment reminds us all that the greatest impact often begins with the smallest of acts—a truth that continues to inspire those fortunate enough to cross their path.For more information, visit: www.RosesHouseLLC.comSonny Melendrezis an award-winningmotivational speaker,Hall of Fame radio/TV host and author,based in San Antonio.For more of his enthusiastic brand of inspiration and speaking information, visit www.SonnyMelendrez.com and listen to his podcast.Located in the heart of Stone Oak, our Assisted Living Community offers a fun and energetic lifestyle while providing the personalized care you need.Take advantage of our current special.NO COMMUNITY FEE for all new residents!Call Today for Lunch and a Tour!20450 Huebner Road, San Antonio, TX 78258 210-615-4000 I IndependenceHill.comI Spy With My Little Eye... ContestBy Sally KalosPlease look carefully on each and every page, scanning up and down, left and right, from front to back, and then back to front. Don’t give up!If you can find the trick or treater you’ll be entered into a drawing to win $50! Just email the page number and location where you spotted the trick or treater to contest@ stoneoakhighlights.com.The deadline is October 12, 2024. We hope you’ll have fun with our version of a mini-scavenger hunt within our pages. Good luck!Congratulations to our SeptemberI Spy winner Cartha HaworthOctober 2024www.stoneoakhighlights.com 5