May 2024 Newsletter

 May 2024 Newsletter 

In the wake of the unexpected announcement on April 10^th regarding the closure of our cherished home, shock and sadness filled residents, families, staff, and the community alike. Although always present, this time of adversity shows the true strength of our community, as everyone shares compassionate and caring conversations regarding the future. As we plant our colourful annual flowers this month, may their warmth guide us gracefully into the next chapter of our lives. In this difficult time, we will continue to put our best foot forward, and we are looking forward to thanking all of our staff for their continued efforts during Long-Term Care Week, May 6^th to 10^th. As we also celebrate mother’s everywhere, we remember the sentiments of our own mother’s, reminding us that “Everything will be okay,” as we are strong and loved.

The reports from the Leadership Team:

Dahlia (Administrator)

On April 25, 2024, we celebrated two very important events – an appreciation luncheon for our volunteers and a retirement for Activity Manager, Carol Begg. Everyone enjoyed the celebration, which included great food, great fun, and most of all, great company!

Thank you to Christine (FSNM) and her staff Darlene for the delicious food, Reg (MM) for the gifts purchased and the creative/work of art napkins, Sayward (ES/A M) and her staff Dwayne for beautifully setting up the room, Kathy (BM) for the great work as our videographer/photographer, and the rest of the leadership team for serving the meals with smiles.

I would like to extend a special thank you to resident Patty, who collected over 85 signatures for the retirement card. Carol, your dedication, commitment, and hard work for the past 40 years have been greatly appreciated. Finally, I want to express my gratitude to all our precious volunteers, our Everyday Heroes!

I would also like to thank Resident Care Plan Co-ordinator, Leanne, for her 9 years of service as we approach her last day at the Home on May 10^th. The residents, staff, and families appreciate your efforts, and wish you the best in the future!

Karla (Director of Nursing) 

A kind reminder to please call the Home directly if you have any concerns to report about your loved ones (ie: pain, confusion, medications). We kindly ask that you refrain from emailing, as there may be delays in addressing your concerns. Sometimes e-mails are missed if they land in our spam folder or managers are away. Your loved ones’ care is our top priority, and contact the Registered Staff directly will ensure that any problems are promptly addressed. As the weather warms up, we look forward to seeing our residents enjoy more outings and appointments. Please remember to arrange suitable transportation for your loved ones, including any necessary equipment. Our facility has a limited number of transport chairs, and they may not be suitable for residents with more complex needs.

MaryAnn (Assistant Director of Nursing: Infection, Prevention and Control (IPAC) Lead)

Hi Everyone, Public Health and the National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommend that residents in long-term care receive a spring COVID-19 booster again this year. I started collecting consents mid-April 2024, and my goal is to finish COVID-19 booster vaccinating by mid-May 2024. The COVID-19 vaccine consent form is the same as the one used in years prior and can be found here. Thank you for helping us keep everyone at LaPointe-Fisher safe.

Kathy (Business Manager) 

Any resident, who currently resides in a Basic Ward Accommodation with a Rate Reduction subsidy, must complete an application annually prior the rate expiry on June 30, 2024.  Kathy will be reaching out once the new Rate Reduction Applications are released to distribute the renewal applications and collect the Notice of Assessment from the 2023 Tax Year.

Sayward (Environmental Services/Activation Manager) 

We are spring cleaning our laundry room and have some clothing that needs to be claimed. If you did not get all your clothes labeled, please see the lost and found rack located in the laundry room.

We are bringing back 4:00pm sensory programs to reach out to residents who may not participate in our scheduled group activities as frequently, along with preparing for fun outdoor events as the weather warms up.

Christine (Food Service and Nutrition Manager)

The Spring/Summer menus come into effect May 6^th. They are signed off by our dietician and Resident Council. Enjoy!

Reg (Maintenance Manager)  

I am continuing to maintain the home, and have nothing to report. Have a great month!

Carol (Retired Activation Manager)
It has been an honour and a privilege to work alongside terrific staff, and get to know so many residents and their families over the almost 40 years where I made LaPointe-Fisher my home away from home. I thank all the volunteers that have supported myself and the Home along the way. I will be returning as a volunteer, just so I can keep in touch as we continue through this journey of life.

Leanne (Resident Care Plan Co-ordinator)

It is with a heavy heart that I announce my departure from the Home on May 10^th. I have enjoyed my time at LaPointe-Fisher immensely, and will miss the residents, families, and staff. I wish everyone all the best wherever the wind takes them.

Happy Victoria Day, and a very happy Mother’s Day!