Shannon Oaks Residents Launch “Memories” – A Book of Meaningful Life Stories

Ruth Welburn
Blog post
At Shannon Oaks Oak Bay, storytelling has become more than just a pastime—it has become a legacy.
After two years of dedication, thirty residents have come together to publish Memories, a heartfelt collection of personal short stories that capture the wisdom, humor, and unforgettable moments of their lives. Spanning 135 pages, the book offers a glimpse into history, resilience, and the art of aging well. Readers will find everything from reflections on how to stay young to tales of childhood on the farm and even firsthand accounts of the night Japanese submarines were spotted off the coast of Vancouver Island.
The idea for the book was sparked by resident Ruth Welburn, a passionate writer who founded a writing group at Shannon Oaks. What began as a small gathering evolved into a collaborative effort that saw contributions from many - those who transcribed, edited, and organized the stories, as well as our talented resident Joan Fraser, who personally designed and painted the book’s beautiful cover!
Our Shannon Oaks team in Oak Bay were thrilled and privileged to celebrate this remarkable achievement by hosting a book launch for the authors! What a joy to see our residents share this accomplishment- they filled the room with laughter, storytelling and a deep sense of pride.
For the writers, Memories is more than just a book, it’s a shared legacy, a reminder of the richness of life, and a gift to future generations.
Memories is available on Amazon!