Thanking ourVolunteers

April 2014 I The Monthly Magazine of Northwood
Thanking our Volunteers
April 2014
Northwood Life
1
Northwood Life
We’re Building Community.
Northwood’s Life magazine is
published 10 times per year by
Northwood’s
Communications
Office. Life magazine is distributed
to the staff, residents, families,
clients, tenants, volunteers, and
visitors of Northwood. If you have
story ideas, photos or suggestions
for the June issue, please call Tara
at 454-3342 or send them to
tdunn@nwood.ns.ca by April 25.
Tara Dunn
Editor
tdunn@nwood.ns.ca
Tel: (902) 454-3342
Shelley Nelson
Harbourview Bar Volunteer, Northwood Halifax
Volunteer since June 2003
About 11 years ago, while working at the Almon Street Royal
Bank (RBC), Shelley Nelson came to Northwood to do a
presentation on investments. She remembers being in the
Harbourview Lounge and noticing the bar Northwood had
for its residents and tenants. She says someone mentioned
that volunteers were needed to run the bar in the evenings,
and that peaked her interest. She applied and has been
volunteering on Tuesday evenings ever since.
“I enjoy spending time with the residents and tenants, and
listening to their stories,” says Shelley. “I know the regulars
quite well and what they’ll order; it’s nice to have time to
socialize with them.”
Wanda Slaunwhite
Northwood Foundation Volunteer
Volunteer since 2004
As a Northwood Foundation volunteer, Wanda sits on
two fund raising committees each year (Appetite for Life
and Chocolate Affaire). She’s involved in the planning
phase and helps out on the day of the events with set up
and décor. Her background in design makes her a definite
asset to the Foundation when deciding on the theme and
decorations for both events. Wanda chaired the Appetite
for Life committee for a couple of years and successfully
helped Northwood raise funds for projects that might not
otherwise have been funded.
“I’ve supplied and installed many custom window covering
projects at the Northwood properties and this is my way
of saying thank you and paying it forward to my friends at
Shelley still works with RBC and because she volunteers Northwood,” says Wanda. “I visit Northwood quite often
at least 40 hours a year, is able to apply for a grant from and I’m always impressed with the hub of activity always
her organization. For the past four years, Northwood has taking place all around the facility.”
received $500 from RBC for special projects. The money
has been used to pay for the television in the Harbourview Wanda says there are always residents smiling and saying
Lounge, musical entertainment and a new sound board for hello, and that Northwood really has a sense of community
Reboom. Thanks Shelley and RBC for your dedication to and family. She sincerely enjoys being able to volunteer and
Northwood!
help out at Northwood in any way she can.
Interested in becoming a Northwood Volunteer?
Apply online today at: www.nwood.ns.ca/become-involved
www.nwood.ns.ca
information@nwood.ns.ca
Northwood is a not-for-profit,
community based organization.
Northwoodcare Halifax
2615 Northwood Terrace
Halifax, NS B3K 3S5
Tel: (902) 454-8311
Fax: (902) 455- 6408
Northwood Homecare
Suite 1 South
130 Eileen Stubbs Avenue
Dartmouth, NS B3B 2C4
Tel: (902) 425-2273
Fax: (902) 421-6313
Northwoodcare Bedford
123 Gary Martin Drive
Bedford, NS B4B 0G7
Tel: (902) 407-8500
Fax: (902) 407-8501
Northwood - live more
For Advertising Opportunities
call 454-3377
April 2014
Our Core Values
Last issue, we began a series of articles that highlight Northwood’s new core
values. In part two, we focus on our second value.
Everyone Plays a Part
We value a vibrant and diverse community where contributions are recognized
and celebrated. We are stronger together.
Simple rule: share what you know, ask for what you need, invite different views
Each day, Northwood touches the lives of over 6,000 people across Nova Scotia.
They include 1,600 staff, providing varying levels of support and over 500
volunteers. Over 900 people call Northwood home. They are both young and
old; some live independently while others depend on us for care. We also have
over 5,500 clients living in the community who connect with us on a regular basis
or receive one of our support services. Beyond that are the family members,
neighbours, organizations, partners, suppliers and donors who interact with
Northwood and help us provide the programs and services that are so vital to
the community.
We are vibrant and diverse community; made richer by the people we serve
and those who live, work and play at Northwood. We come from different
backgrounds, cultures and experiences. Our connection to Northwood varies but
we all feel part of a close-knit community. We are at our best when we share a
common goal. For Linda Verlinden, Northwood’s Client Relations Coordinator,
the Resident/Family Holiday Dinner is one example that stands out.
“It takes a huge effort to make that event special for residents and their families,”
she says. “It’s all worth it when you see a resident proudly escort their family
to dinner.”
That kind of success doesn’t happen by accident. It takes a large number of
people to set up the rooms; prepare the meal, organize the seating and arrange
for special diets. Residents depend on staff to help them get ready, We rely on
staff, volunteers and community support to serve the meals, act as hosts and do
the clean up.
“You look around the room that night and you begin to understand how our
values lead to action and how our actions contribute to our sense of community,”
says Linda. Whether it’s planning a neighbourhood block party, getting ready for
accreditation or building a new strategic plan, we know that our best work is
done when everyone plays a part.
The May issue of Life Magazine will
feature Sharing a Moment with
Janet Simm, CEO.
April 2014
2
Northwood Life
To: Jennifer Lowe
From: Dale Kelly-Burke
Jen often volunteers to work during
her ‘off hours’ to cover clients
that would have to be cancelled
otherwise; the most recent being
January 30. After working her
daytime shift, Jen volunteered to
go back out in the evening to cover
five more clients. I appreciate Jen’s
dedication and commitment to our
clients and believe she deserves
special recognition.
Northwood Life
To: Amanda McCulloch
From: Dale Kelly-Burke
On February 9, Amanda agreed
to work covering clients in the
Windsor area who would have had
to be cancelled otherwise. Amanda
showed great dedication to our
clients in agreeing to work on her
weekend off. We are lucky to have a
worker like Amanda who has such a
caring heart.
A Tale of Two Kitties
There once were two sister kitties
Who lived at the top of the Manor.
They came to their new home last summer
Those furry gals Perri and Tanna.
They’re a wonderful addition to our floor
Says Paula the LPN.
All the residents and staff do enjoy them
They’ve really settled in.
Alvin thinks the cats are pretty
And looks for them every day.
Tanna is his favourite
He loves her in his own special way.
Vivian’s taken a liking to Perri
And says she’s very special to meet.
Perri knows that after Vivian’s nap
Is when she’ll get her treat.
It’s quiet and cozy in Joan’s room
And where you’ll often find Tanna.
It’s like she knows many residents need her.
She spends time with Sheree, Larry, Lloyd & Maurina
All those on 11 Manor
Know the cats are here to stay.
Sometimes positive impacts can’t be measured
But they certainly see it every day.
3
April 2014
Client Corner
Submitted by Melanie Gaunt, Resident, Lupin Hills, Ivany Place
Pay it forward
Hello, my name is Melanie Gaunt
and I live in Lupin Hills at Ivany
Place. I’m 42 years old and have MS. I
was diagnosed in 2002 and have been
living at Ivany Place since it opened.
Born in Halifax, I grew up in Montreal.
I moved to Charlotte, North Carolina,
in 1999, finished my BA and then got
my Masters of Arts in Organizational
Communications. While going to school
I ran the co-ed freshman residence hall.
Living in a dorm was similar to living in
a community-based nursing home but
with more alcohol and less walking aids!
Unfortunately, I never started my career
which would have been in nonverbal
communications, public speaking or
strategic planning.
I came back to Canada in 2004, Halifax in
2006. Originally, I had planned to move
to Parkstone but came to visit my friend,
Tracey Meagher, and immediately
changed my first choice to Ivany Place.
I got the last open bed here!
The only problem with Ivany Place, for
me, is that it’s in Bedford. I would have
preferred to be in the core HRM and
with people closer to my age. This has
continued to nag at me the entire time
at Ivany Place, despite my wonderful
time here. I did an interview with CBC
last year about living outside the core
city, surrounded by people twice my
age. There should be a place for disabled
young adults.
At the end of last year, the Chronicle
Herald did a series about Long Term
Care. In it was an article featuring
Vicky Levack, a 22-year old who lives
at Arborstone. She talked about living
someplace where everyone was much
older than herself. She had the same
issues that I had. We decided to start an
advocacy group in February. The name is
Independence Now Nova Scotia (INNS)
and we are going to have an introductory
meeting on April 16th at 7:30 PM, at the
Shirley Burnstein Hall at Northwood in
Halifax. Everyone is invited.
Our Mission Statement is: “To promote
housing and independence for young
adults with disabilities”. At the moment
our three main objectives are: Look at
mind, body and soul and alternative
medicines, redefine “young adult” from
18-65 to 18-55., and finally, although it
would seem obvious, to have a disabled
person involved in development.
Change doesn’t happen until someone
starts the process. We’ve decided to
start. I doubt I’ll get to live in a place like
that but Vicky might. As for me, I just
want to make life a little easier.
Dean Brody: A Dream Come True
Christine McBride, resident on 11
Beech River is probably the biggest
Dean Brody fan you’ll ever meet!
She loves his music and his good looks,
but most of all she loves his good heart
and giving spirit. On February 1, Christine
realized a dream when she was able to
attend Dean’s concert at the Halifax
Metro Centre and meet him back stage
before the show.
“Being back stage was like having the
paparazzi all around me,” says Christine.
“When Dean came in, I just wanted to
give him a big hug. He practically had me
snuggled into him.”
Believing strongly in the cause of the
Dean Brody Foundation, Christine was
able raise $93.05 before the concert.
After she met Dean, she presented him
with the money along with a number of
other gifts. “I’d like to personally thank
everyone, especially here at Northwood,
who helped me with this very important
cause,” she says.
For her first concert ever, Christine says
it was an awesome experience. “The
music was great, but I especially liked
the special effects.” She left that evening
with five T-shirts, a hat and a special
keychain to commemorate the event!
4
April 2014
Northwood Life
Introducing Jeff Hooper
Resident, Schooner Landing, Ivany Place
Jeffrey Robert Hooper is a very
engaging, social guy who enjoys
meeting people and trying new
things. He’s the kind of person
who brightens up a room and lifts
everyone’s spirits. He’s also quite
possibly the biggest Elvis Presley fan
around!
Born October 24, 1965, Jeff grew up
in Sydney River, Cape Breton. About
a year and a half ago, Jeff moved to
Halifax with his mom Mildred, and
into Ivany Place. When they first
arrived, the pair shared a room, but
about a year ago, Jeff moved into
his own room on Schooner Landing.
He enjoys having his own space but
remains very close with his mom and
visits with her every day.
Jeff also has a great relationship with
his brother Neil and sister-in-law
Colleen. Neil often takes him to the
movies and other events outside of
Northwood. They enjoy spending
time together and it’s always
something Jeff looks forward to.
When you enter Jeff’s room, it’s
very clear that music is a big part
of his life. Not only does he have a
huge collection of Elvis memorabilia
(CDs, clocks, wall hangings, etc.), he
also has two stereo systems, a large
mounted poster of musical icons and
many music CDs. “I love rock and
roll,” says Jeff. “I also love Scottish
music, jazz and blues.”
If he’s not listening to music, then
you’ll probably find Jeff reading
books, looking at magazines,
watching sports or movies on
television or using the computer to
look up interesting things. He’s also
a big Montreal Canadiens fan but his
favourite hockey player will always
be Wayne Gretzky.
Jeff likes attending church services
with his mom; something they used
to do together when they lived in
Cape Breton. He also goes to all the
events held at Ivany Place and says he
loves living there. When asked if he
liked the food, Jeff replied yes and
said his favourites are hamburger and
fries, and macaroni and cheese!
5
Northwood Life
April 2014
Hugh Smith, Northwood’s
2014 Senior of the Year
Each year at the Appetite for Life Dinner, the Hedley G. Ivany
Award is presented by the Northwood Foundation to a senior
who has made a lasting contribution to our community. Whether
as an entrepreneur, business person or volunteer, they will have
contributed to the betterment of society, shared their knowledge
and insight with others and invested time, talent and energy to
a number of worthwhile projects.
This year’s senior of the year is
Hugh Smith.
Since 1969, Hugh has been
active in Halifax in law, real
estate, building supplies and
construction. A partner and
counsel to Stewart, McKelvey,
Stirling, Scales; partner with
John Fiske in the development
of Historic Properties, The Brewery, 1801 Hollis Street,
Quinpool Centre; and C.E.O. of Piercey’s Building Supplies
and Municipal Enterprises Limited.
He has volunteered with many organizations, serving as Chair,
President or Board Member, including The John Howard
Society; Help Line; Law Foundation; Special Olympics;
Heritage Canada; Old Burying Ground; V.O.N.; Duke of
Edinburgh’s Award; Grace Maternity Hospital; Dalhousie
Medical Research Foundation; and the Read to Me! and Halifax
Youth Foundations.
Hugh has been involved with Northwood for more than a
decade and was instrumental in the creation of the Pauline
Potter Community Health Centre and Pauline Potter
Community Fitness Centre. He served on the Appetite for Life
Committee, lending support to several very successful events
and has led The Municipal Group of Companies to become
one of Northwood’s greatest supporters. Northwood is
honoured to present this award to Hugh and thanks him for
his dedication not only to Northwood, but also the greater
Nova Scotian community.
Accreditation Countdown
Northwood is preparing now for Accreditation in
February 2015. Much of that work is ongoing and helps
us ensure we continually meet the highest standard of
service. One of the areas we focus on is infection control. It’s
important, not only because it’s an Accreditation standard,
but because we believe it’s good practise.
There are a total of 14 Infection Prevention and Control
standards of excellence that Accreditation Canada
evaluates. One of the most important is Hand Hygiene.
Northwood provides mandatory education to all staff
when they are hired and annually thereafter. There are also
quarterly audits performed across the organization, with
the results communicated to staff and corrective action
taken when appropriate.
Annual Influenza Vaccines are another very effective
method for preventing the spread of influenza.
Northwood offers the annual vaccine to all residents, staff
and volunteers. The immunization program is another
Accreditation Canada standard.
Outbreak Management is also important. Influenza can
spread quickly whenever people live in close quarters.
We make a difference by placing sick residents on room
restrictions, cancelling group activities, restricting travel
throughout the facility, increasing disinfection of commonly
touched surfaces and communication.
How can I be involved?
Learn more about Accreditation standards from your
supervisor and be ready to answer questions about
Northwood’s programs and services. Look for more
updates and displays. Remember: a Better Northwood
Begins with ME!
Winning Employee Numbers for April Sponsored by your SMART Committee
Northwoodcare:
8503, 14270
Northwood Homecare:
32342, 32704
Northwoodcare Bedford:
55021
If one of these numbers matches your
ID number, you’ve just won $20!!
Take your ID and a copy of Life to the
Business Office to collect your prize.
If you see your number, leave a message
for Debbie Rines at 421-7309 and
we will mail you your $20 prize.
If this is your employee number, please
see Bill Ryan in the Business Office to
collect your $20 prize.
6
April 2014
Northwood Life
Northwood Life
7
April 2014
Northwood Celebrates National Volunteer Week, April 6 -12
Northwood responds to the
needs of older adults helping
them maintain independence
while providing care to those
in need. Volunteers are essential
to providing support for the many
programs that enhance quality of life
for the 6,000 clients we serve.
Over 500 volunteers contribute
their talent, skill and time
to Northwood. They make a
difference in the lives of residents
and seniors in the community, and
continue to be a vital part of the
Northwood community.
What are some of the benefits of volunteering?
•
•
•
•
•
•
Giving back to the community
Impacting the people you are serving
Learning and developing new skills
Meeting a diverse range of people
Receiving a letter of reference
Gaining life experience
129 NEW recruited Volunteers started this past year
112 of the NEW volunteers still remain active
527 current Total ACTIVE Volunteers
279 Halifax , 127 Bedford, 121 Intouch
Our youngest volunteer is 3 and our oldest volunteer is 94
60% are Female and 40% are Male 80 volunteers are under the age of 30
12 volunteers have their Master degree
2 have a PHD
Our volunteers are helping in numerous ways ….
Porters - Beauty salon, Physiotherapy, Health center, Church; Bartenders;
Adult Day; Musicians; Recreation therapy general assistants; Business office;
Reception; Program leaders; Hospice; Telecare; Northwood Intouch;
Friendly visitors; Board of Governors; Premier Events; Goodie cart; Sunshine
cart; Bingo; Gardening; Pet therapy; Spiritual care; Shoppers; Deliver flyers;
Fitness Centre; NWBC; Office assistants; Special events; Bake sales; Tickets
sellers; Foundation…And more !
Mike Falk
Recreation/Music Volunteer,
Northwood Halifax
Volunteer since 2006
“I come in almost every day to play
piano on 7 Birch Bay. I started playing
when my mom was a resident on that
floor and have just continued to do
so. I enjoy being useful and it gives me
something meaningful to do each day.”
Colleen Blom
Admin Volunteer, Northwood
Halifax
Volunteer since 1997
“Over 16 years ago, I started
volunteering in the gift shop doing
cash and inventory, then spent about
10 years with Reboom updating
memberships, selling the quick meals,
filing and making phone calls. For the
past two years, I’ve been working with
Yvonne in volunteer resources once
a week doing filing, photocopying
and phone calls. I usually come on
Wednesdays which is great because I
love the chicken souvlaki at CoCo’s.”
Volunteer Week Events
Northwood Volunteer Brunch
(Ticket required – RSVP to 454-3353 by April 2)
Saturday, April 12
Doors open at 12:15 p.m.
Comfort Hotel, Bayer’s Lake
88 Chain Lake Drive, Halifax
Bedford Volunteers
Aline Bond
Physiotherapy Porter, Ivany Place
Volunteer since 2011
“I porter residents to their physio
appointments on Monday and
Thursday mornings. It’s usually a lot of
the same residents, so I’ve developed
relationships with many of them and
we have interesting conversations.
They ask me what I’ve got going on in
my life and one resident always wants
to know what I’m cooking that day.”
Yvonne lePair, the Director of
Volunteer Engagement, is currently
on the Board of the newly named
Volunteer Management Professional
of Canada (formally known as Canadian
Administrators of Volunteers) as the
Communications chair.
Volunteer Management Professional
of Canada promotes competence
and excellence in the leadership of
volunteers through an established
code of ethics, employment resources
& advocacy, certification and with the
standards of the Canadian Code for
Volunteer Involvement.
(For those unable to attend the Brunch event)
Pizza Reception
Tuesday April 8 from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Please sign up in the Volunteer Lounge
Halifax Volunteers
(For those unable to attend the Brunch event)
Light refreshments
Thursday April 10 from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Please sign up in the Volunteer Lounge
Hannah Rose
Recreation Therapy Volunteer,
Ivany Place
Volunteer since October 2012
“I do a lot of one-on-one visits with
residents at Ivany Place. I have one
resident I play scrabble with, another
I play cards with and a couple that I
just enjoy talking to. If there’s an event
going on, I help bring residents down
and if there’s bingo, I’ll help residents
play. I’m here usually on the weekends,
but sometimes I come after school
too. I like to come during the summer
as well because I have more time.”
8
April 2014
Northwood Life
Northwood Life
Marguerite ‘Marg’ Ainsworth spent
66 years of her life volunteering and
was a full time volunteer until the age
of 93. She was an amazing woman
who took an interest in everyone
she spoke with. Marg volunteered at
Northwood for 28 years and was a
member of the original Northwood
Community Centre Association. She
was the hostess and an active weekly
player for cribbage games and also planned bingos for many
years. Marg participated and was involved in various Reboom
events and helped out whenever she was needed.
Remembering
memories of the depression and the child
star who took the world by storm during
the 1930’s. Her films offered people
a break from their own hardships and
provided a rich mix of singing, dancing
and uplifting moments.
Marg was a polite and respectful lady who was adored by all who
knew her. She is dearly missed by the Northwood community.
Monday, May 5
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Research Participants
Needed
Coffee Culture
Café & Eatery
540 Southgate Dr.,
Bedford
For more information
or to register,
contact the
Nova Scotia Centre
on Aging:
nsca@msvu.ca
or 457-6546
Do you or someone you know live in a
licensed nursing home and identify as being
lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender?
On February 23, 2014 Reboom members,
Northwood staff and residents attended the
Halifax Camerata Singers’ presentation of Saints
and Legends at Saint Patrick’s Church in Halifax,
thanks to a donation of tickets from the group’s
artistic director, Jeff Joudrey.
The concert was designed to celebrate the saints
and legends who have walked among us and their
contribution to our world. Saints and Legends paid
tribute to John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr.,
Mother Teresa, Hildegard von Bingen, Saint Francis
of Assisi and others.
Thank you Camerata Singers for your generous
donation to Northwood!
As our society ages, the health care system is coming under increased
pressure. While supporting people at home is the preferred option, it also
places an increased burden on family caregivers.
Technology may offer hope. “Northwood saw the value of technology early
on,” says Michele Lowe, Executive Director, Northwood in the Community.
For many people, the death of Shirley “We were the first to introduce a personal alarm system to Nova Scotia and
Temple on February 10, brought back today offer a range of sensors, detectors and medication dispensers.”
She was an executive member of the George Burton Toastmasters
Club and earned the advanced toastmaster goal designation,
which was presented to her at the 25th anniversary of the club.
Thank You Halifax Camerata Singers!
Answers
Shirley Temple
In her younger years, Marg was a Girl Guide leader and very
involved with the Canadian Council of the Blind, after marrying
her husband, who was visually impaired. She organized an annual
sports weekend, ran monthly bingo games and also managed a
weekly card game and luncheon.
Innovations in Nursing
Homes – Are they
making a difference?
April 2014
Looking for
Remembering
Marguerite Ainsworth
Northwood Volunteer
1916 – 2013
Café
Scientifique:
9
As participant of this study, you will be
interviewed for approximately 1 – 1.5 hours
about your experience living in long term care.
Interviews can take place in person or over the
phone and are completely confidential.
To volunteer for this study, please contact
Maureen Green at (902) 448-0022 or maureen.
green2@msvu.ca and leave a message with your
name and contact information.
She began her career at age three. At the
box office, she beat out the great adult
stars of her day, such as Clark Gable. Her
popularity spawned a large number of
merchandizing items such as dolls, hats
and dresses while her signature corkscrew
curls became a popular fashion choice
for little girls.
She retired from acting in 1940, married
and changed her name to Shirley Temple
Black. In later years, she turned her
attention to foreign service: serving in
the U.S. delegation to the United Nations
from 1969 to 1974, becoming U.S.
ambassador to Ghana from 1974 to 1976,
and U.S. ambassador to Czechoslovakia
from 1989 to 1992.
Shirley Temple films include:
Stand up and Cheer 1934
Bright Eyes1934
The Little Colonel1935
Curley Top1935
The Littlest Rebel1935
Poor Little Rich Girl1936
Dimples1936
Wee Willie Winkie1937
Heidi 1937
Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm1938
Little Miss Broadway1938
Little Princess1939
How effective are they?
Thanks to money raised by the Foundation through Appetite for Life,
Northwood was able to initiate a research project to find the answer to that
question. The study, called “Improving Health Outcomes and Maintaining
independence in the Elderly with Assistive Technology”, included participation
from Simon Fraser, Dalhousie University, Northwood, Annapolis Valley
Health and the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness. We wanted
to know:
• What is the true impact of providing alarm and sensor equipment?
• What do people think about technology as a support to help them
stay at home?
• Does technology lead to improved well-being, independence, safety
and quality of life?
• Does technology produce cost savings for the system?
About 36 seniors and 29 family members participated and were followed for
six months. Interviews were conducted at three time points.
What was Learned?
Findings included:
• Older adults reported feeling safer and more secure in their homes.
• Caregivers also reported experiencing increased piece of mind.
• The individual fit influenced how a devise was used.
• More research is needed on how to best tailor the devise to the
needs of the individual.
• Alarms and sensors are only one piece of an integrated care plan.
The project was a success, achieving its goals, building new relationships and
encouraging further work in this area.
April 2014
10
Northwood Life
Introducing Rodney Lessard
Resident, 4 Willow Shore, Northwood Halifax
Rodney ‘Rod’ Lessard has always
been a hardworking, happy-golucky guy. He has a great sense of
humour and you can always count on
him for a smile. He loves the outdoors
and grew up playing team sports like
hockey and baseball. His favourite
hockey team is the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Rod loved fishing and hunting and
spending time with family and friends.
He also liked to sing and play his guitar.
Growing up Rod always had some kind
of ‘man toy’ on hand like an ATV or
skidoo, and lots of tools.
The youngest of four, Rod was raised
in a devoted and loving family. He
worked as a carpenter and later as a
trade union organizer. He is proud of
being part of his carpenter’s union.
Rod built his dream home himself,
next door to his mom and dad in
Brookside, Nova Scotia. It’s a custombuilt design that sits on a large piece of
property overlooking distant lakes. He
takes great pride in the home he built
Northwood Life
Through it all, they have remained
very close and visit Rod every day.
Three years ago, a fundraising event
A little over 10 years ago, Rod had an was held to help send Rod to Albany,
industrial accident, leaving him with New York for an experimental MS
a broken jaw and trauma. Although treatment. His friends, family and
he did recover from the accident, community rallied together and raised
three years later he began noticing enough money to send him and a care
something wasn’t quite right. It started team. Although the treatment did
with issues around his balance, making provide some benefit, it was short
it sometimes difficult to walk straight. term; but if you ask Rod if he would
The symptoms became worse and try the treatment again, he would
he was eventually diagnosed with say “yes”. Any benefit, even for a
Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Rod was told short time would be worth it all. The
that sometimes a trauma can bring fundraiser also helped him with a new
diseases like MS out of dormancy and electric wheelchair and many other life
this trauma may have played a factor in support items that improve his life at
his MS progression.
Northwood. Even though much time
has passed since the MS procedure,
Four years ago, Rod moved into he is still grateful to all his friends and
Northwood Halifax after it became coworkers who gave time and money
too challenging for family to care for to help him combat the effects of this
him at home.
traumatic disease.
April 2014
The Gift of Love Inspired
Passion and Purpose
You may have passed her in the
lobby or the elevators talking to
residents thinking she was working
at Northwood because she’s here so
often. The reality is that for the past
four years, Yvette Gagnon has been
visiting her brother, resident Rod
Lessard. “We weren’t always close,”
says Yvette of her brother. All that
changed when Rodney was diagnosed
with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) nine
years ago. She is now one of Rodney’s
biggest advocates and takes a lead role
in his care. “There is nothing I wouldn’t
do for him. I think he knows that and it
gives him comfort.”
and the love he has for his 13-year-old
daughter, Gabrielle.
11
Since Rod came to live at Northwood
over four years ago, Yvette and her
family have been pleased with the
care he’s received. “Northwood is
really one of the best nursing homes,”
she says. “Very forward thinking and
always asking ‘what will make Rod’s
days easier and more enjoyable’.” But
through it all, she knew she wanted
more for him, more than what could
be provided. “We wanted someone
to visit with my brother to help offset
our visits, help him remain social and
engaged as the disease progressed
because that’s how he was before
the MS.”
Yvette started researching companies
who could provide companionship
but only found businesses tailored
to those living at home with nothing
specifically for residents in long term
care. “We wanted someone that
would understand what we were going
through as a family; someone who was
really an extension of us, someone we
could count on.”
Finding inspiration through her
brother, Yvette started her own
business in the fall of 2013 and built
a resource for families that she could
not find. “I always wanted to own a
business, but nothing ever fit,” she says.
“Now, I can’t think of anything I would
rather be doing than helping families
with those they love in care. It truly is
my passion and purpose, and it was my
love for my brother that helped me
find it. I hope he knows what a gift he
has given to me and now to so many
others in need.”
Comforting Companions (www.
comfortingcompanions.ca) provides
peace of mind to families by providing
regular companionship to those they
love in long term care or temporary
relief, while family is out of town. “I
know personally how much a service
like this helps relieve some of the
pressure and emotional challenges
that families feel and that’s why I feel
so passionate about it,” says Yvette.
“With my mother as my example, I
have been blessed with empathy and
understanding; it has always been
my strength.”
Yvette says she has learned a lot from
her brother over the years and while
his life is still challenging day to day,
he knows he is not alone in his
difficult journey, and in that… they
both find comfort.
12
April 2014
Northwood Life
Northwood Life
13
April 2014
alone
doesn’t mean
lonely
Reboom registration line: 454-3351
Back: Barb Sturge, Mary Wallworth, Amanda McVechterova, Shirley Sack, Lynda MacAleen, Ashley Penton.
Middle: Audrey Arthur, Margaret Redding, Diane Simpson, Fran Watson, Maurina Smith.
Front: Helen Burke, Candice Clark, Pam Supple.
Get Savvy - Healthy Summer Eating
Learn how to read nutrient labels and
prepare healthy summer recipes, and get
tips for getting back to health after a long,
cold winter. The meal will be a chicken and
spring greens quiche with a side salad and
apple crisp. Coffee, water and tea will also
be served.
When: Monday, April 28 at 2:00 p.m.
Where: Stadacona Room
Cost: $10 per person
Register by April 25.
Lunch Bunch
Good food in a relaxed atmosphere with
great company and conversation! We
make the reservations and provide the
transportation from Northwood or you
can meet us there.
When: Wednesday, April 16
at 12:00 noon
Where: Bluenose II, 1824 Hollis Street
Cost: $8 p/p for transportation plus
cost for lunch
Register by April 15
Harbourview Lounge Wednesday
Night Dances
Come down to the Harbourview Lounge
each Wednesday night for some drinks
and musical entertainment. April features:
April 2 – Ellis Brothers
April 9 – Alex Vaughan
April 16 – Tom Keeping
April 23 – Eclipse
April 30 – County Line
When: Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Music starts at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Harbourview Lounge
Cost: Regular dance fees
$1 reisidents, $2 tennants
$3 members, $5 non-members
Social Dance Lessons
Learn how to Jive, Cha Cha and Slow
Dance. This course assumes that you are a
beginner at dance but would like to enjoy
moving to music with a partner. Partners
are not guaranteed so it is best if you bring
one with you. Gather some friends and
have a night out. All are welcome.
When: Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Where: The Great Room, Ivany Place
Duration: April 16 for six weeks
Cost: $50 members
$65 non-members (payment
plans available)
Register by April 9
“TGIF-Thank Goodness I’m Female”
Women’s Group Program at Northwood
In 2011, a Women’s Group was
created for female residents
living at Northwood Halifax
via the Recreation Therapy
department. The “TGIF-Thank
Goodness I’m Female” program
focuses on friendship, intrinsic
motivation,
encouragement,
socialization
and
community
integration. At present, there are
34 members of the group that are
registered, having 12-14 consistent,
regular members attending each
week. The women meet every
Tuesday afternoon from 1:30 – 3:00
p.m in the Recreation area on the
main floor.
outings. It is a very inspiring program
and each of the ladies looks forward
to getting together. Whether it is to
talk business among the group, an
intimate discussion or heading out
to Smitty’s for coffee and dessert,
Over two years later, this group has these ladies are dedicated to the
only grown stronger with all of the group and to each other.
women empowering each other
and feeling empowered themselves Submitted by Amanda McVechterova,
through group discussions, guest Recreation Therapist,
speaker meetings, and community Northwood Halifax
Living Alone Series: Lunch and Learn
Together we will explore some of the
challenges of living alone and share some
ideas for making your life easier.
When: Sunday, April 27 at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Penthouse
Facilitator: Lyn Barrett
Cost: No charge
Register by April 24
George Burton Toastmasters
Speech Contest
Discover how Toastmasters’ educational
programs can help you achieve personal
goals in a friendly social atmosphere, with
the support of your Fellow Toastmasters.
All are welcome.
When: Saturday, April 2
from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Where: Penthouse
Cost: No charge
Contact Reboom to Register
Reboom’s Spring Market
Baked goods, preserves, fresh produce and
more: see our fresh food market! Vendors
contact Reboom to register your table.
When: Thursday, May 1
10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall
Cost: Table rental $30 members,
$50 non-members
Contact Reboom to register
Meet iVi
the Fall Alert Pendant that automatically
calls for help when you can’t.
Who
is iVi for?
• Anyone at risk of falling
• People with conditions such as
epilepsy or diabetes
• Older or disabled people
who are becoming less stable
• People recently discharged from the hospital requiring additional support
• People prescribed drugs such as
blood pressure pills, water pills,
painkillers and sleeping pills
* iVi can not detect 100%
of falls. Always press the
button when able.
Start living more confidently!
Reboom Laptop Computer
Borrowing Program:
Thanks to a generous donation from IMP, we are
happy to introduce the Reboom Laptop Computer
Borrowing Program. This free of charge service is
open to Reboom members, Northwood residents,
tenants, volunteers and employees. Call or drop by
the Reboom office between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.,
Monday to Friday to make a reservation or sign out a
laptop computer.
492-3346
northwoodintouch.ca
Coastal Chorus
in Concert
When: May 18 at 2:00 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall,
Northwood at the Harbour
Cost: $10 members,
$15 non-members
call 454-3351 for more details
or to reserve your tickets