Nancy McDonald, PebbleCreek resident and Kare Bears client
Faces of Kare: Nancy McDonald
Kathy Koncel
The celebration of Kare Bears’ 30th year anniversary presents a meaningful opportunity to recognize both the volunteers who give so generously and the neighbors whose lives have been touched by their care. Built on the simple but powerful idea of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors,” Kare Bears has become a trusted and compassionate presence in PebbleCreek. In this first installment of our Faces of Kare series, PebbleCreek resident Nancy McDonald shares how Kare Bears supported her and her family—simply, kindly, and right when it was needed.
When did you move to PebbleCreek, and what led you to choose it as your home?
“In 2009, my husband and I—and our two Labradors—started out as snowbird residents in PebbleCreek. He and the dogs began spending winters in PebbleCreek, but I was still working full time in Denver so I was flying back and forth frequently to be with them. Let’s just say that Southwest airlines appreciated my routine! PebbleCreek’s proximity to Phoenix Sky Harbor was a key factor in deciding to make it our winter home. And, of course, PebbleCreek and its beautiful amenities were also compelling factors in our choice to make it home. In 2019, I retired and we were able to establish PebbleCreek as our main home, while enjoying life as snowbirds.”
How did you hear about Kare Bears?
“I recall passing by the Kare Bears house on my walks. I also remember reading about it in the PebbleCreek Post. So, I was definitely aware of Kare Bears before actually contacting them when I needed their services. To a degree, Kare Bears is simply a part of PebbleCreek’s identity.”
Do you mind telling us about the services you received from Kare Bears?
“Not at all. Both my husband and I have enjoyed the convenient and caring assistance Kare Bears offers. In December 2024, I had a hip replacement and needed a walker. Working with Kare Bears on this temporary equipment loan was easy, and free. So, I didn’t need to deal with the complexities of renting a walker or related insurance claims. Exactly a year later, in December 2025, my husband had a knee replacement. So, I went right back to Kare Bears and was able to arrange a walker loan for him just as easily. The volunteers who helped me both times were consistently kind, caring, and efficient.”
Have you recommended Kare Bears services to any of your neighbors or friends?
“I have, and I’m always surprised to learn that not all PebbleCreek residents are aware of Kare Bears and what it can do for them—free of charge. Whenever I see postings on Facebook or in the E-Group about someone seeking to borrow a walker or similar, I’m always quick to respond and let them know how to contact Kare Bears for help. At some point in their life, most PebbleCreek residents could probably benefit from the services provided by Kare Bears and its amazing volunteers. I know we have! And whether you have used a Kare Bears service or simply appreciate that it’s available free of charge to PebbleCreek residents, a donation is a great way to show your support.”
Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, Kare Bears brings together PebbleCreek resident volunteers to help neighbors in need with loans of home medical equipment, rides to medical appointments, and more. Kare Bears also promotes wellness across the broader PebbleCreek community through events and screenings. Learn more at karebears.org.
Share Bears Celebrates Spring and Easter
Nicki Forbes-Robinson
We all came in vibrant spring colors (lots of pink, lavender, and blue) and enjoyed the company of other PebbleCreekers before our bingo games began. Several even donned bunny ears for the festivities—pictured are Maureen Plate, Gloria Smith, Susie Nee, and Nicki Forbes-Robinson. Share Bears Bingo is a Kare Bears sponsored activity held Fridays in the Eagle’s Nest Ballroom and is ideal for those who no longer want the more active options in PebbleCreek. It’s lighthearted competition and only a quarter a game. Join us at 10:15 a.m. for social time with games beginning at 11 a.m. If you’re looking for something fun to do, bring $3.25 in quarters and join us! For more information, call 949-289-5471.
The upright four-wheeled walker is one of our newest items. Kare Bears has six of these in stock to loan out to residents.
Kare Bears News and Events
Kathy Erlick
Did you know that Kare Bears has more than 250 pieces of medical equipment to loan to PebbleCreek residents, for free? Yes, we do! The checkout and return process is very quick and easy. For more information, please contact Kare Bears:
* Location: 15383 W. Cheery Lynn Rd., Goodyear AZ 85395-8513
* Phone: 623–536-1200
* Email: info@karebears.org
* Website: karebears.org/what-we-do/column-2/medical-equipment-loan
One of our newest items is the upright four–wheeled walker! These walkers are excellent for reducing back and neck pressure, leading to less pain and better mobility. The concealed brake cable design prevents catching on objects, allowing users to walk confidently and upright. At just 20 pounds, many features a foldable design for easy transport. They are recommended for a height range of 4’7″ to 5’10.” Kare Bears has six of these in stock for residents to loan out.
In addition to the stand-up walkers, we also have the following equipment available:
* 2-wheel and 4-wheel walkers
* Transport chairs and wheelchairs
* Ramps (for garage-to-house access)
* Canes and crutches
* Grabbers
* Knee scooters
We had a wonderful turnout at the Annual Kare Bears Health & Wellness Fair in March. Many PebbleCreek residents joined us to learn useful information on how to stay healthy and get the most out of life. We would like to extend a big thank you to the PebbleCreek resident-volunteers for helping us run this event and the PebbleCreek residents for attending and making it more enriching for all. Every year this event is located in the Eagle’s Nest Ballroom. It will be held again in 2027.
Upcoming Kare Bears–sponsored event: Hearing Screening by Ascent Audiology on Friday, May 1.
For more information, go to: karebears.org/monthly-events/clinic/240-ascent-audiology-hearing-screening-5-1-2026.
Getting in the spirit are Anna Thomas, Susie Nee, Evelyn Haskins, Debbie Vasilofski, Maureen Plate, Jacquie O’Hare, Gloria Smith, Dave Johnson, Randy Rohwer, Hilda and Juan Fermin, Jim and Alene Giuffre, Sandi Leishman, and Jim Schleimer.
Share Bears Celebrates St. Paddy’s Day with Style
Nicki Forbes-Robinson
Over 60 super seniors attended the Share Bears Bingo St. Patrick’s Day celebration with lots of green shirts and hats, shamrock sunglasses, a few shenanigans, and a beautiful March birthday cake. Share Bears Bingo is a Kare Bears–sponsored activity held Fridays in Eagle’s Nest Ballroom and is ideal for those who no longer want the more active options in PebbleCreek. It’s light-hearted competition and only a quarter a game. Join us at 10:30 a.m. for social time, and games start promptly at 11 a.m. If you’re looking for something fun to do, bring $3.25 in quarters and join us! For more information, call 949-289-5471.