Sunlight pours through the large windows of Amanda Tharratt’s apartment at Century Sunrise in Johnson City, softly illuminating shelves lined with beloved books, treasured collectibles, and thoughtful decorations that reflect her personality and passions. Nearby, her cat Bagel curls up comfortably, never far from Amanda’s side. The apartment feels warm, welcoming, and unmistakably hers, it is a space built not only with furniture and décor, but with confidence, growth, and independence.
For Amanda, moving into Century Sunrise in 2018 marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter. At first, the transition came with uncertainty. Like many people learning to live independently for the first time, there were moments of adjustment. Amanda remembers having to get used to the unfamiliar sounds of a new apartment on her very first night there. She also recalls the first time she unexpectedly ran out of household essentials.
“I called my mom,” Amanda said with a laugh. “She reminded me that now I needed to keep track of things and plan ahead.”
Those early lessons became stepping stones toward the independent life Amanda has built today.
Now, nearly eight years later, Amanda has created a life filled with routine, meaningful relationships, personal interests, and goals for the future. She works from home for Endwell Family Physicians, where she has spent the last four years completing clerical work for the transcription department. Prior to that, she worked for 13 years at Wilson Hospital in a similar role. The flexibility of her current position allows her to maintain a lifestyle that feels balanced and fulfilling.
“I have a nice work-life balance,” she shared.
Amanda’s days are filled with the things she loves most. An avid reader since childhood, she proudly collects the Sweet Valley High book series and currently owns nearly 500 books in the collection—a hobby she began when she was just nine years old. She also enjoys attending live performances, practicing yoga in Endicott, dining out at local restaurants, and watching slasher horror movies, especially alongside her brother. She is also a devoted fan of actress and singer Idina Menzel, whom she has met three times and hopes to see again at future meet-and-greet events.
Family remains a central part of Amanda’s life. Her mother and brother live within 15 minutes of her apartment, one of her sisters also resides at Century Sunrise, and another sister lives less than 10 minutes away. Together, they maintain traditions Amanda grew up loving, especially decorating for holidays and special occasions, something she now proudly continues in her own home.
But Amanda’s support system extends beyond family. Through Springbrook, she receives support from staff members Jean Hendrick and Kathleen Mecca, who each visit weekly to assist with things like meal planning, laundry, cooking balanced meals, and transportation when needed. Rather than limiting Amanda’s independence, the support helps strengthen it. With those supports in place, Amanda has been able to continue building the skills and confidence necessary to manage her own life successfully.
It is evident that Amanda has gained a lot of independence and confidence. She exercises regularly at the local YMCA, often swimming three times a week, and enjoys taking walks through George W. Johnson Park in Endicott. She has embraced opportunities within the Century Sunrise community, building friendships and connections while exploring new hobbies and experiences.
“The apartment is full of opportunities,” Amanda said. “There’s a real sense of community here.”
One of the most meaningful additions to Amanda’s life came in 2021, when she adopted Bagel, her beloved cat, from the Animal Care Council shelter in Endicott, the same shelter where Amanda once volunteered. Bagel quickly became an important source of companionship and comfort.
“She knows me really well,” Amanda shared. “Especially when I’m anxious, she comforts me.”
Today, Amanda continues setting goals for herself while embracing the life she has built. She hopes to travel to Walt Disney World again someday after previously taking a memorable trip there with support from Springbrook staff. She also wants to continue decreasing her anxiety, maintaining her apartment, and succeeding in her career.
Despite all she has accomplished, Amanda remains humble and grounded as she is appreciative of both her independence and the people who have supported her journey.
“I feel really settled,” she said thoughtfully, “but always waiting for a positive plot twist.”
Amanda’s story is a powerful reminder that independence looks different for everyone. With the right support, encouragement, and opportunities, people can build meaningful lives rooted in confidence, connection, and personal growth. At Century Sunrise, Amanda has done exactly that by creating not just a home, but a future fully her own.