If you’re looking for Greg Sims on any given day, you’ll likely find him in one of the common areas at 10 Wilmington Place, deep in conversation with another resident. There's something about Greg that just draws people in. Maybe it's his background as a teacher, or maybe it's just who he is. Either way, his story is definitely one worth telling.

Early life in Dayton

It's not far-fetched that Greg would choose 10 Wilmington Place. Greg is no stranger to the neighborhood. "I grew up eight blocks from here, Edgar Avenue, which is just down the road a little bit," he says with a smile. After his family moved to East Dayton, he graduated from Wilbur Wright High School in 1971. His journey took him far from home before bringing him back decades later.

Choosing a path of service

Greg's path wasn't always clear, but he was in college during the Vietnam War and knew his service would be through healing, not combat. His inspiration came from his high school athletic director's brother-in-law, a physical therapist at the VA Center. "I wasn't built to be a soldier. I wanted to take care of the ladies and gentlemen that came back with their wounds." That calling led him into adaptive physical education at the University of Kansas, and after graduating, he spent decades in Wichita and Orlando, helping students with diverse needs find their own paths to success.

A meaningful career

Greg shared one standout story from his teaching days that really embodies who he is. He had a student who was struggling with his weight and didn't want to participate in physical activities. A lot of teachers might have just pushed him to do the regular exercises anyway.

Not Greg. He created a whole gymnastics routine just for this student, something that worked with his abilities instead of against them. "He got an A, the first time in his life he ever got an A," Greg says, and you can hear the pride in his voice.

But Greg didn't stop there. He noticed the student had this amazing singing voice and kept encouraging him to do something with it. His student ended up getting a Ph.D. in opera and now tours professionally. That's the kind of teacher Greg was.

Returning to Dayton after loss

In 2022, Greg's world shifted dramatically when his wife of over 40 years passed away. Around the same time, his sister was diagnosed with aphasia dementia, and Greg knew he needed to be closer to family. 10 Wilmington Place was a no-brainer for Greg, especially when it came to proximity to his sister: "She only lived six blocks down the road, so I could take care of her."

But it wasn’t just the familial benefits that stood out as a perk to Greg. After visiting several options, he simply liked the 10 Wilmington Place community the most: "This place was far and above the best.” 

Greg even jokes with his sister about how close they are now: "If my car doesn't start, I'll just get my sled and I'll go down the hill and be right there." That convenience has only grown, now that his sister has also moved into 10 Wilmington Place.

Life at 10 Wilmington Place

Greg finds comfort in the community at 10 Wilmington Place, emphasizing the exceptional support from staff and the camaraderie among residents. He appreciates the accessibility of care options, from independent living to memory care and skilled nursing. "This is a great facility. I believe that they maintain it very well," he says.

He particularly enjoys meaningful connections with other residents, praising them as "walking books" full of valuable stories and experiences.

Advice from Greg

When asked what advice he would offer others, Greg highlights the importance of community and learning from those around you. He emphasizes, "There are so many resources here." He talks fondly about his fellow residents, saying, "We have a variety of people here that have their own story to tell. If you can sit and visit with them and listen to what they have to say, you'll get an education."

Ready to experience life at 10 Wilmington Place?

If you're considering a senior community for yourself or a loved one, schedule a tour today and discover why residents like Greg proudly call it home.