David Alger is a proud resident of Bethany Home’s Assisted Living facility, fondly known as Beth Haven. 

He has been awarded the title of “official greeter” at the facility because of his friendly nature and outgoing personality.  David especially enjoys the social aspect of living at Beth Haven.

Having grown up as one of six children on a dairy in Southern California, it is no surprise that David settled in Oakdale.  He worked at his brother’s cattle ranch before retiring and moving to Ripon in 2011. 

“My most fearful moment while working on the ranch was the day I was ‘hit’ by a 3,000 pound bull,” recalls David.  “My angels were watching over me that day, since I only suffered a broken pelvis and collarbone.  Several angels are watching over me today.”

One of David’s most satisfying moments came last autumn, when he was asked to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.  He joined the Bethany Crusaders team from Bethany Home, and ended up being the largest fundraiser on the team. He recalls raising $100 in pledges on the first day.  “I thought that would be my limit,” a smiling David remembers.  “I never dreamed that I would reach the $5,000 level, just by asking my friends and acquaintances to help me in supporting a worthy cause!”

When we caught up with David, we found he was an avid walker.  He used to walk 2.5 miles a day, until his open heart surgery last year. 

“I spent over nine hours on the operating table, while they fixed my heart,” said David.  “I am slowly building back my strength, and can walk about a half mile every-other-day.  It is my goal to get back to where I was before the surgery.”

Everything David pursues is done with passion and enthusiasm.  He never says ‘never’ and always has a story to tell … and a picture on his phone to show.  David is looking forward with great anticipation to participating in the 2013 Almond Blossom Parade and hitching a ride on the Bethany Home float.

David Alger … the energy that helps to define the Heart and Soul of Beth Haven!