A Heartwarming Valentine’s Day Tradition
Love and kindness filled the halls of Cross Keys Village as 8-year-old Eloise Leatherwood continued her annual tradition of bringing joy to the residents of Personal Care. For the fourth year in a row, she returned with warm hugs and special Valentine’s Day gifts, brightening the day of everyone she met.
Ellie looks forward to this every year and starts planning what her gifts will be once the donations start coming in. Ellie’s mother shared, “When she started this project, we visited both Personal Care and Brookside because that was where her great-grandfather was (Personal Care) and her great-grandmother (Brookside). After the first year doing this, Ellie learned she enjoyed the interactions with the residents a bit more in Personal Care and wanted to focus her efforts there.”
Accompanied by her Mom, Nana, and Pap, Ellie carried out her mission, #spreadingsmiles, with a heart full of love and a spirit full of joy. This initiative has become a deeply personal and meaningful tradition for her. With her great-grandparents having lived at Cross Keys Village, Ellie has always cherished her visits, finding joy in connecting with the community and sharing kindness with its residents.
Her compassion and enthusiasm left a lasting impact on both family members and residents, who were in awe of her ability to bring warmth and happiness wherever she goes. It’s not just about delivering gifts; it’s about making meaningful connections, spreading love, and reminding others that they are cherished.
Ellie’s selfless efforts remind us all of the true spirit of Valentine’s Day—love, generosity, and kindness. Through small but powerful acts of care, she continues to make the world a brighter place, one smile at a time.
Thank you, Ellie, for inspiring us all to spread a little more love in our everyday lives!