Comfort In Community – Update Week of June 16

COMFORT IN COMMUNITY

We’ve dreamed of this day – in one way or another – we’ve dreamed about how the world will look and feel, as communities around us start to open up again. We’ve learned about ourselves, our neighbours, our colleagues – we’ve learned about complete strangers across the world and the very similar and powerful connection that we all share.

When simple comforts like a haircut, meeting a friend for cold drink on a patio or even a routine teeth cleaning at the dentist create a stir of excitement and anticipation – we know we’ve awoken from this dream changed – in one way or another.

As one of the sectors most at-risk during this health care crisis, residents, families and staff of the Villa have endured months of stringent restrictions, working around the clock to keep a very real “threat” at bay. As we consider what the summer months will bring, we are dreaming too – of seeing families reunited face-to-face, of volunteers sharing a laugh with a resident, of staff members sharing lunch together at the same table.

Aside from dreams, our reopening and easing of restrictions will require careful planning. The Provincial Government has announced that visiting at Long Term Care Homes will slowly resume. ‘Phase One’ includes visits which are pre-arranged, supervised, and require visitors to have a negative swab for COVID. These visits will take place outdoors only and will be facilitated by our Therapeutic Recreation Department to ensure that all safety protocols are followed.

It remains our absolute top priority to keep residents and staff safe, and continue the outstanding record of success that we’ve had since March. Were it not for the efforts of the Hamilton community and our local health care systems, we would not be standing here, about to realize this ‘dream’. Thank you to everyone for continuing to exercise caution and respecting the challenging and important measures we’ve had to take. Thank you for standing with us!

*Please note all photos and video of staff featured without masks were taken prior to mandatory requirements that masks be worn at all times. Staff continue to practice these diligent safety measures to help ensure the safety of residents and their colleagues!

A Swab Story

This week we began another round of surveillance testing for Villa staff. Regular swabbing is part of our proactive approach and commitment to protect our residents. Given that the virus can present without any signs or symptoms, routine testing is an important component in our defense. It alerts us to any potential risks or issues before they happen and provides an accurate snapshot for contact tracing. Mieke Ewen, the Villa’s Administrator, has been leading the charge during the pandemic with grace and compassion. This week Mieke gave us an insider’s view and what you can expect if you get tested.

Lending A Hand

Over the last two weeks, two of our staff members have been assisting other Long Term Care homes that have been significantly impacted by this health care crisis. We would like to recognize Wendy Randall, Manager of Environmental Services for her work onsite at another home and Jaimie Williams, Director of Performance, Quality and Food Services for the support she provided remotely. Thank you Wendy and Jaimie for sharing your expertise and experience as part of the Villa team to assist other residents, families and staff in the community who are struggling. Your support is invaluable. This work is very close to our Mission.

Swapping Shops

When the pandemic hit, many of our staff were redeployed and have enjoyed connecting with a whole new group of residents. Stephanie from our Therapeutic Recreation Team taped this short video at the beginning of the pandemic and shared how her role has changed from working with clients in our Adult Day Program.

*Please note – this video was taken before masks were mandatory and does not reflect our current practice of wearing masks at all times

Peace Prayers

Last week, we shared with you St. Joseph’s Estates Resident – Seiichi Ariga and his daily flute performances from his balcony. Seiichi recorded this beautiful serenade from his home studio to help us thank everyone in the Villa family for their strength and positivity.

Dreamweaving

Day after day, we are one step closer to realizing our hospice dream for this community. The Villa team has resumed active planning for hospice programs and services that we will offer families when doors open in the late spring of 2021. These visioning sessions are critical in helping us weave together the dreams, needs and wishes of patients and families. While we may not be able to change the result, we can certainly change the experience at end-of-life. Ira McDonald Construction has been diligently making dreams come true. Watch out latest video of the site, courtesy of Spectrum Aerial Imaging to see hospice dreams coming true…

Now more than ever, your support matters!

For updates on how the Villa is addressing the Covid-19 pandemic or to find out how you can help, please visit our website. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all our good news stories.

THANK YOU FOR STANDING WITH US!

Be safe, be well, be healthy,

John Woods, President – St Joseph’s Villa & Don Davidson, President & CEO – St. Joseph’s Villa Foundation