Appreciating Natural Beauty in Atlanta

Jerelyn Chapman loves beauty in all its forms. Her home is beautifully decorated, her backyard is immaculate and, even for the smallest errand, she’ll take the time to tastefully dress up and do her hair and makeup.

Reflecting upon her long and successful career in the commercial loan business, Jerelyn said she found it demanding and challenging but loved every minute of it.

Jerelyn had planned to travel extensively after her recent retirement when she received a devastating throat cancer diagnosis and made the decision to forgo surgery and continue to live life as beautifully as possible on her own terms.

Although Jerelyn is no longer able to travel, she socializes with friends often and keeps an active calendar. Her greatest joy is the beautiful backyard and garden she and her husband Harold have spent years tending.

Alice in Wonderland at the Botanical Garden

Jerelyn’s appreciation of natural beauty is why her Crossroads team in Atlanta planned a trip to the Atlanta Botanical Garden. They knew Jerelyn would love the “Alice’s Wonderland Returns” exhibit featuring larger-than-life topiary sculptures inspired by Lewis Carroll’s age-old story Alice in Wonderland. 

The Cheshire Cat, Queen of Hearts and “Alice spinning in a whirl of teacups and playing cards,” as well as, singing flowers blooming to recorded music were several of the 38 sculptures on display. The rose garden, orchid house, Japanese garden and treetop canopy were also amazing.

Jerelyn’s courage and positive attitude are an inspiration to all. Her trip to the Atlanta Botanical Garden on a perfect sunny and warm spring day was part of Crossroads’ Gift of a Day, an individualized program that helps patients live life to the fullest. 

While the flowers and plants were gorgeous, seeing delight bloom on Jerelyn’s face throughout the outing was clearly the highlight of the day.