GOOD SHEPHERD SERVICES, LTD.
Mathilda* is a 90-year-old area resident who suffered a stroke. She came to Good Shepherd after a short hospital stay and received therapy for two months. She and her husband wished for Mathilda to be able to return home. They were concerned about the financial burdens of care. The entire family was relieved by the news that Medicare would pay for a portion of Mathilda's care at Good Shepherd Home. She and her family received counseling from the Chaplain and Social Services Director during their adjustment to the dramatic change in their lives. The family became an active part of the care giving team. Mathilda was consulted and participated in her care. At first she could only nod to express her approval and disapproval, but eventually, with speech therapy, she regained her ability to communicate. Physical and occupational therapies gave her the skills to do more for herself.
As the time approached for Mathilda to return home, her husband and daughters prepared to care for her, thanks to the nursing staff who gave the family intensive education and training on feeding techniques, safe mobility and the stroke process that was affecting Mathilda. Good Shepherd Community Support Agency staff met with Mathilda and her husband before her return home to ensure that supportive care would continue. Meadow Wood apartment staff also assured Mathilda and her family that an apartment was available for her and her husband if care at home proved too taxing. The day finally came when she returned home. There were tears of joy all around for Mathilda's triumph over her disability. There were tears of sadness as well, because the family was parting from their new friends at Good Shepherd.
John* is a widower who lived independently at home until he fell and broke his hip. His health had been declining for several years and he had become withdrawn and depressed - feeling lonely and isolated. When he was admitted to Good Shepherd Home, John would not eat or participate in activities. He cried frequently and wanted only to stay in his room. Despite special meals planned for him by the dietician, personal invitations to all activities and counseling from the social services staff, he became even more withdrawn. He even reached a point where he no longer wanted to get out of bed. The social worker continued to work with John and learned that his only daughter had died during the past year. His grief and discouragement were easy to understand.
Amy* is a bright three year old who was ordinarily happy and outgoing. The Children's Center staff noticed that her behavior was changing dramatically and she became very quiet and withdrawn. Staff expressed concern to her parents and learned that Amy's grandfather had died suddenly. She was very close to her grandfather and didn't know how to cope with the loss. Thanks to the staff at Good Shepherd, Amy was introduced to John during a shared activity between nursing home residents and the children from the Children's Center. They reached out to one another in need to fill a void they shared in common. Amy found a new "grandpa". John found a purpose in his ability to nurture and comfort this little girl and was comforted in return. Three years later, they share a special bond which includes daily visits and many shared activities. He is eating again and she is laughing and playing. Amy's family has adopted John as part of their family. Good Shepherd staff arrange transportation for John so he can visit Amy's family at their home on holidays and special occasions.
*Names used are fictitious