ACROSS THE WAY

On Dec. 5, 2010 we had the biggest snowfall
in six years - 16 cm. - 6.5 inches!

Yesterday, January 8, 2011
we had 30 cm. more - that's about a foot!

Not sure why the police was called

to an apartment in the building

across the way. 

But they got stuck.

There was also an ambulance
yesterday and today.

When I managed two manors

we had to call police several times.

One of our residents accused

a staff of stealing.

After several months the resident
came to my office in tears
apologizing profusely
about what shame she had
caused the wonderful staff.
The resident had

found her money - but

in a different purse -
one she had not used
since the previous fall.
I had not fired the staff
because I knew of her
integrity and respect for seniors.

Another time one of our residents

became violent with one of our staff.

He mistook her for an intruder

even though she called out to him 

in a very friendly voice

as usual.
Family was called.
Resident was taken to the doctor.
A geriatric assessment was updated.
Medications were changed.
Staff never entered his apartment
alone again - as a precautionary measure.
He had a long and very good
stay with us.

Another time someone passed

away during the night

and foul play had to be ruled out.
It was determined to be natural causes.

Another time death was ruled a suicide.
So sad, no prior indications were
noticed by family or staff.

A most beautiful homegoing was that
of a good friend's mother.
Sunday, as was her custom, she put on her best,
had a good cup of coffee with her toast,
put the dishes in the sink,
and just lay down on her sofa until
it was time to go to church
in our center.
As per daily apartment check,
there was no answer at her door.
Staff used the master key after several knocks
and found that the resident had gone on
to worship at the feet of Jesus!

Had all these memories just because

a police car and ambulance

were across the way!

A little muscle and good teamwork of 

friendly neighbors 

and the cruiser was on its way.