By Staff
To the editor:
With the horrible images of various kinds of abuse that nursing homes are associated, it is not uncommon for families to try and find alternate health care for their loved ones. So was the case of my family.
My grandmother, Dorcas Vaughn, became physically and mentally ill in 1995 to the point that my mother and aunt could no longer take care of their mother without professional care. The decision by my grandmother's physician and my mother and aunt was made to place my grandmother in the trusted care of the Atmore Nursing Care facility.
Rest assured, this was a most agonizing decision for the family. However, unlike the negative stories publicized about most nursing home care, the care my grandmother received during her two and one-half year residency at the Atmore Nursing Home arrested any fears that our family once entertained.
Upon walking in the facility, we were always greeted with the warmth and compassion of caring nurses and staff. We could not help but notice how sparkling clean the facilities were kept. During the holidays, such as Christmas, the center was beautifully decorated with holiday cheer. Calendars lined the hallways with various activities to entertain and occupy most of the residents. The center always felt like "a home away from home." Not once, did any of our family members leave with an impression that our loved one had not been tenderly watched over.
The staff stayed in constant communication with us regarding my grandmother's volatile condition toward the end of her life. They demonstrated compassion, tenderness, and above all love not only for my grandmother, but also for all of our family. Perhaps the greatest illustration of their love and concern was the nurse's and staff's attendance at my grandmother's funeral. I am certain that this outward expression of love and support can only be the result of a genuine heart.
With gratitude and sincerity of heart,
The Family of
Dorcas Vaughn