Elisa Graber

Meet Your Corporate Marketing Director

Elisa Graber

Why Did You Get Into Senior Living?

I was guardian for my mom during the last five years of her life. I saw the challenges involved in finding excellent assisted living care first-hand. After having some less than stellar experiences with other communities, I found Inspired Living at Lakewood Ranch. In fact, my mom was one of the first residents there. I became a Raving Fan! I’ve been a marketing professional for more than 20 years. When I heard that there was an opening for a corporate marketing director, I wanted nothing more than to fill that seat!

Who Truly Inspires You?

My parents left a legacy that inspires me every day. My dad was a pioneer in public tv, founding WMHT, one of the first PBS stations in the US. He was patient and kind, and he taught me the importance of truly listening to people and not rushing to judgment. My mother was a psychiatric nursing instructor and a published writer. I could always count on her to find grammatical errors or typos on menus, in newsletters, and on flyers. My parents had a wonderful sense of humor, which I try to carry on, especially in difficult times. They inspired me with their humility, generosity, and love of life. Memories of them inspire me to live my best life, every day.

A Thing People Would Be Surprised To Know About You?

I love to hike and made it to the top of Half Dome quite a few years ago! My most recent climb was to the top of Lassen Volcano in California. Since we don’t have any big mountains here, I take five-mile walks every couple of days, enjoy yoga, and walks on the beach with my husband Michael.

Beatles Or Elvis?

Beatles! Imagine, by John Lennon is one of my all-time favorites. “You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one.”

How Did You Wind Up At Inspired Living?

It started with my mom becoming a resident at Lakewood Ranch, and me becoming a Raving Fan. I think it’s serendipity that I work here now.

What Do You Want Your Legacy To Be?

For many, leaving a legacy is associated with the end of life. I believe that one’s legacy is not defined at the end of life, but rather by the moments shared, actions taken, and the mistakes overcome throughout life. I think it’s important to take calculated risks to live a full life, and to care for others…supporting those who need a helping hand, encouraging those who are discouraged, and providing hope for those who are struggling. As Natalie Babbitt said, “Don’t be afraid of death; be afraid of an unlived life. You don’t have to live forever; you just have to live.”