Celebrating Resilience: An Inspiring Journey of Healing and Adventure at 83

Mid-October 2025 – As autumn leafs crunch underfoot and the cool breeze signals a change in seasons, one intrepid soul prepares to celebrate her 83rd birthday, not just as a number but as a testament to resilience and joy. This is the story of Ilene Dillon, who, despite a grievous leg injury, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Canada, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to living life fully.

It all began on an ordinary morning as Ilene stepped out of her RV—the home she cherishes. Suddenly, an intense pain shot through her leg as if something had torn within. Glancing down, she was alarmed to see her right foot swollen three times the size of the left. "I hurt it. Something tore," she recounted to her neighbor Mary, a former nurse, who immediately offered assistance.

Seeing the potential severity of her condition, Lino, a physical therapist, suggested she may have torn her Achilles tendon. While the news was daunting, Ilene’s spirit remained unbroken. "But I’m planning to go to Canada to celebrate my birthday!" she exclaimed. Lino’s guidance came with a condition: she needed to wear supportive boots and take care not to overexert herself during her trip.

As Ilene prepared for her adventure, she chose to embrace the philosophy of “learning over fear.” Despite waiting for her surgery appointment, she decided to travel and make the most of her time. "I can sit at home and wait, or I can wait with you while having fun!" she declared, booking a wheelchair for her flights and packing her bags for the exciting journey ahead.

Reflecting on her late husband, a dedicated neurosurgeon, Ilene finds both humor and heart in the predicament. Though unable to walk unassisted, she embraced the joys of being in a wheelchair—allowing her to cut through airport lines and relive memories of her husband’s own airport experiences.

Her trip to British Columbia was filled with laughter and adventure—a 90-minute massage, high tea at the iconic Empress Hotel in Victoria, and breathtaking ferry rides. The weight of her injury seemed to lighten amid cherished moments with her friend’s family, artistic explorations, and delectable dining experiences. "Independence and freedom are vital for us both," she notes, sharing how the duo playfully navigated their mutual caregiving instincts.

As time went on, Ilene discovered that her leg pain diminished significantly. Her red-light therapy and support boots worked wonders. Even the airline staff noted her journey—upgrading her to first class, where she met an enthralling rice and almond farmer. Their conversation unveiled intriguing post-war tales of Japanese rice trade, reminding her that every encounter holds a story worth sharing and learning from.

Upon her return to California, Ilene found a surprising twist—her injury had healed sufficiently to forgo surgery entirely. She would move forward with physical therapy instead, a testament to her tenacity and the wisdom of listening to her body.

In sharing her story, Ilene hopes to inspire others to take responsibility for their own lives and embrace the lessons that come from adversity. "We’re all here as learners," she states, encouraging everyone to focus on growth rather than obstacles. Her life, once a series of challenges, has transformed into a vibrant tapestry of experiences marked by emotional insight and joyful living.

As she prepares for her next adventures, Ilene Dillon invites us all to embrace our journeys, choose curiosity over fear, and above all, love ourselves fiercely. The best days are always ahead—just waiting for us to step into them with open hearts and minds.

Join Ilene as she continues to navigate life’s adventures, proving that every moment, no matter the circumstances, is ripe for discovery and joy.