All of these wishes are part of a program called Heart's Desire at the ManorCare facility. Every month, senior citizens living in the home submit a piece of paper expressing their "heart's desire," something that they would like to do that is beyond their individual means.

Once a month, one of the papers is drawn, and the desire expressed is filled to the best of ManorCare's ability.

The program, which is in place at HRC ManorCare homes all across the nation, has been in full effect at the Sunnyvale facility for about a year, said Jaleh Behzadi, activities coordinator. The facility covers the expenses for any costs related to a wish—within reason, of course.

"One of the ladies wanted to go to Alaska to see her daughter, and we just couldn't do that," Behzadi said.

However, if something is within reach, ManorCare organizes the event. This month, four of the residents who are members of the bingo club at the home went to play bingo off-site at the Cupertino Senior Day Center.

Ethel Dickey explained why she likes the game. "Bingo is fun. It's easy enough that anyone can play it without instruction."

Most of the activities requested by residents of ManorCare cater to one person or a small group of people. However, at the end of August, the Heart's Desire program will host a candlelight dinner for all of the residents and their families.

"This is an activity that everyone can participate in," Behzadi said.

Behzadi would also like to see community get involved in making the wishes of the residents of HRC ManorCare come true.

"It would be nice if the community of Sunnyvale is aware of this program," she said. "They might be able to provide us with some ideas."