Toledo Seniors Defying the Odds

TOLEDO, OHIO (January 18, 2021) -- The pages of the calendar reveal a new year and new opportunities...and for many Baby Boomers, “prioritize my health” is likely on their 2021 resolution list. Exemplifying just that is a dynamic group of 12 Toledo “60 somethings” –seniors who prove that a positive attitude is the right fuel to help them overcome obstacles and chronic health conditions and live a longer, healthier life. From battling the effects of a life-changing stroke to becoming an artist despite the challenge of being legally blind - in an effort to “pay it forward,” the Toledo 60 Strong Ambassadors are sharing their stories and spirit with their peers.

These 12 intrepid Toledo locals, who range in age from 60 to 69, were selected to be “pin-ups” on an exclusive 2021 calendar; they are highlighted alongside notable Toledo landmarks, featuring area activities and events that seniors can enjoy. The calendar will also feature health tips for seniors and provide information about Medicare information sessions and open enrollment. They were chosen by a celebrity panel of judges, including Ohio media personalities, leaders in the arts, and other Toledo luminaries who were impressed by their unique stories that shared a common thread – grit, resilience and a fervent drive to give back.
The winners are as follows:

• Joy Moritz
• Jim Carr
• Linda Coogler
• Tony Hague
• Annette Hallett
• Tim Hayes
• Betsy Kenniston
• Mike Navarre
• Cindy Roshon
• Deb Schmenk
• Joe Sparks
• Dave Wisniewski

One 60 Strong Ambassador, Tony Hague, a Toledo firefighter, joined the fire house in 1989 and immediately noticed a diversity issue. He took initiative and started a program called Toledo Fire Recruiting for Diversity (TFRD) to help in the training and preparation of BIPOC recruits. Since starting the program, 45 people from TFRD have been hired by the city. Despite Tony’s health challenges, having undergone two knee replacements and a cardio ablation this past year, his passion for helping others keeps him going. He says, “every day I wake up it’s in the pursuit of happiness, and that happiness comes from [asking myself] who can I help? Whose life can I change?” Tony hopes other seniors won’t let their age or health challenges define them. He believes they should find a passion, get others involved, and let that be the driving force to overcoming adversity.

The Toledo 60 Strong calendars are available for purchase online at www.Toledo60Strong.com. The cost is $15 for each calendar and all proceeds will benefit The Toledo Clinic Foundation, which provides financial assistance for patients undergoing cancer treatment at The Toledo Clinic. Toledo 60 Strong is a celebration of grit and resilience, sponsored by The Toledo Clinic in conjunction with the launch of Independence Health Senior Care Advantage, a new program designed to keep seniors active and help them navigate the complexities of Medicare coverage and other healthcare decisions. For more information, log on to www.independencehealthseniorcareadvantage.com.