For years, Patty dreamed of standing beneath the bright lights of Broadway, and recently, she made it happen. With her good friend Peg by her side, someone she met through Aspire, she set out on an unforgettable New York City adventure. Patty planned every detail herself, from the sights they’d see to the places they’d eat, she even made matching “Girls Trip” shirts for herself and Peg. Fun, thoughtful, and completely her style, the shirts reflected just how excited she was for every moment of the weekend ahead.  

It was a whirlwind few days filled with bustling streets, laughter, and the excitement of finally bringing her dream to life. 

The journey began with a Friday afternoon train ride from Boston. Patty and Peg made a beeline for Times Square as soon as they arrived. “It was overwhelming,” Patty said with a laugh, “but in the best way possible.” The flashing lights, street performers, and energy of the city were a whole new world for her, and she embraced every moment of stepping out of her comfort zone. She also made sure they stopped at the Hard Rock Café for a classic New York meal before settling in for a good night’s sleep. 

Saturday was packed with sightseeing. Patty led the way on a six-hour tour, visiting Central Park, the Empire State Building, Wall Street, and the 9/11 Memorial. When they reached the Statue of Liberty, the landmark Patty most wanted to see, they paused to take it in.  

“Patty moved us through the city with so much confidence and ease,” Peg said. “I think I might have gotten lost without her!” 

After the tour, a sudden downpour hit the city. Patty and Peg walked back to the hotel, soaked from head to toe and giggling the entire way. Their spirits couldn’t be dimmed because that evening was the highlight of the trip: a Broadway show at the Gershwin Theatre to see Wicked. It was a magical night, and the exhaustion from the day melted away in the glow of the theater lights. 

As the weekend wrapped up, they came across another pair of shirts that had them laughing out loud: “I survived my trip to New York City.” After two days of packed sidewalks, surprise rain, and nonstop exploring, they couldn’t resist turning them into the perfect keepsake. 

Patty’s trip to New York City was about independence, curiosity, and living fully in the moment with her friend Peg. Over 30 years of friendship, they’ve encouraged one another through every chapter, and this adventure was no different. What they created together was more than a weekend getaway—it was a shared memory rooted in trust, joy, and choice.  

Stories of Impact

Patty Takes on New York City