Sixteen years ago, Brent and Soriya Pok-Todd found their forever neighborhood in Thornwood. In 2009, after relocating from Ohio to be closer to Brent’s family and for Soriya to begin a new job in Elgin, they chose Thornwood—and it’s been home ever since. With their children Malee and Khai now thriving, it’s a perfect time to celebrate their “Sweet 16” milestone as a cherished Thornwood family.

Brent and Soriya’s story began in a way that could rival any rom-com. While working at American Eagle Outfitters, Brent asked Soriya to fill out a credit card application, telling her it was so he could get her number. She playfully challenged him—and a few days later returned, saying, “You never called me.” That exchange led to her inviting him out for her birthday. One night together, and the rest is history.

Both Indiana University graduates, Soriya went on to earn her MD at the IU School of Medicine and now serves the community as an Emergency Room Doctor at Saint Joseph Hospital in Elgin. Brent, after earning his degree in Information Technology and Sociology, has dedicated nearly 15 years to being a full-time stay-at-home dad—a role that’s made him a fixture in the community. From leading Cub Scout and Girl Scout troops, to managing the swim team and now serving on the HOA board, Brent’s commitment to Thornwood has been unwavering.

Their daughter, Malee, now 18, is headed to Carthage College to study marketing/public relations/communications while playing collegiate water polo. Their son, Khai, 15, is a standout student who enjoys Brazilian jiujitsu at Misfits Jiu-Jitsu in St. Charles, where he remains undefeated in his age and belt category.

At home, the family shares life with their two cats: Bolt, a big, lovable boy without a care in the world, and Penny, the tiny but mighty ruler of the house.

Holidays hold special meaning for Brent and Soriya. Christmas Eve is spent with Brent’s extended family—sometimes as many as 32 relatives—and Christmas Day alternates between homes. On the Fourth of July, they never miss the parade in Arlington Heights with Brent’s sister and her family.

Brent also leads the neighborhood men’s club—an informal monthly gathering that visits local restaurants like Village Tavern, Village Squire, and Overflow. As he describes it, it’s simply “an excuse to go out with neighbors once a month”—a tradition he’s helped keep going for 14 years.

One of Brent’s favorite Thornwood memories? The day he stumbled upon the neighborhood in 2008, stopping to take his daughter for a walk down the bike path. He walked past a house where a homeowner was sitting outside, with many kids playing nearby. Brent asked him about the neighborhood and was told “Normally there’s more kids outside playing.” That one walk convinced him—this was where they belonged. And sixteen years later, Thornwood is all the better for it.