POWERED BY THE BRANDYWINE CENTER OF EXCELLENCE ISSUE 37 | FALL 2018
NEWS & NOTES ALL AROUND BRANDYWINE
Team members and residents of Brandywine Living at Fenwick Island, take a photo during their Arabian Nights event for NALW)
From the desk of... Brenda Bacon
First, congratulations on another successful National Assisted Living Week! I love your passion and imagination. I know you are wondering who won. Well‌I like to keep you in suspense, so more on the BCE Awards later. By the way, our efforts with Project Ace (recruitment and retention) are moving along. Community level job fairs were in high gear in October (Voorhees had almost 200 people)! As you know, finding quality people with heart (like you) takes time and is not an easy task. Heart is simply something you cannot teach. You have to love what you do. Agency out. Family in.
Speaking of family, I want you to know our corporate leadership, like I do. I want you to have a comfort level talking with them or seeking assistance whenever, wherever. Get to know them as I know them. So, check out the new Tribute column, The Leadership Series (pg. 5). Our first spotlight is Steve Heaney (Vice President of Operations and Real Estate). If he is not filling in as an Executive Director, getting us storm ready, helping to manage our 29 real estate assets, he can be found speaking nationally on emergency management or working closely with state regulators on assisted
living policy. He is a man of many skills and talents, and he is someone we can count on... and have for over 20 years. People are curious about what makes Brandywine, Brandywine. It makes me smile. With competition opening around us, I gladly open our doors, because we have beautiful communities, incredible care, and programs that keep our residents healthy and engaged. And, we have you. Your professionalism, attitude, and love for what you do shows. It matters. It changes the world for the better. I cannot close this conversation with you without addressing the senseless and disturbing violence and ill will that is so evident in our country and our political atmosphere these days. No matter where you were born, what your race or gender is, what religion you practice, or who you choose to love, we all have the opportunity several times each day to be kinder to each other. May God bless you with the gift of kindness...both given and received.
CONGRATULATIONS!
WELCOME! Bonnie Edenfield Escapades Producer at Haverford Estates
Jessica Easton Escapades Producer at Wall
Calvin Taylor Dining Services Director at Upper Providence
Jessica Wilson INVEST Coordinator at Alexandria
Germania Belen Escapades Producer at Senior Suites
Michael Mwangi Dining Services Director at Alexandria
Heather Whyte Assistant Wellness Director at Alexandria
Miguel Murteira Dining Services Director at Middlebrook Crossing
Jeffrey Giordano Environmental Services Director at Voorhees
Zainab Kabba Business Office Manager at Alexandria
Alyse Semuskie promoted from Chauffeur to INVEST Coordinator at Brandall Estates Ashley Cruz promoted from INVEST Coordinator to Escapades Producer at Voorhees Bianca Tricoli promoted from Wellness Coordinator to Director of Community Relations at Livingston
Christine Warrington promoted from Community Operations Manager to Director of Community Relations at Fenwick Island Linda Rivera promoted from Escapades Expert to INVEST Coordinator at Huntington Terrace Michele Paleos promoted from Reflections Serenade Butler at Moorestown to INVEST Coordinator at Voorhees
Shakia Lee promoted from Reflections Serenade Butler to INVEST Coordinator at Haverford Estates Thomas Norwood promoted from Chef to Dining Services Director at Seaside Pointe
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BRANDYStar SPOTLIGHT Solange Cham joined Brandywine Living at Mahwah when the community opened. Solange says it was the best decision that she has made! Solange works as a waitress. Before joining Brandywine, she worked as a chef and helped establish her family’s business in Montreal, Canada. She has experience in care management through her work as a private home health aide.
SOLANGE CHAM
WAITRESS MAHWAH
3RD QUARTER BRANDYSTARS ALEXANDRIA
Todd Kamber, Chauffeur BRANDALL ESTATES
Yeatu Sidee, Care Manager COLTS NECK
Stephanie Marino, Lead Concierge DRESHER ESTATES
Cherice Bowman, Housekeeping Assistant FENWICK ISLAND
Michelle Wolff, Wellness Nurse THE GABLES
Tammy Jones, Wellness Nurse GOVERNOR’S CROSSING
Disheng Xian, Dining Assistant HADDONFIELD
Sandra DiBella, Care Manager
Solange is a dedicated member of the Brandywine family! She is always picking up additional shifts to help her team and takes pride in having an excellent attendance record. The residents look forward to seeing her beautiful smile. Solange likes to sing and dance in the dining room, making most meals the highlight of each resident’s day. She has a way of turning a simple meal into a dinner theater.
HAVERFORD ESTATES
Sherifa McDowell, Wellness Nurse HOWELL
Gasmy Belzince, Care Manager HUNTINGTON TERRACE
Tara Saunders, Wellness Nurse LITCHFIELD
German Munoz, Waiter LIVINGSTON
Patrick Abello, Butler LONGWOOD
Eva Kelleher, Butler MAHWAH
Solange Cham, Waitress MIDDLEBROOK CROSSING
Pamela Klinger, Concierge MOORESTOWN ESTATES
Russell Douglas, Dining Assistant MOUNTAIN RIDGE
Yves Desrosiers, Chef PENNINGTON
Christopher Agans, Chauffeur
Solange pays attention to details. She knows all of the residents’ individual preferences and ensures that everyone is present for each meal. Her patience, understanding and compassion are an asset to Brandywine. One of Solange’s favorite things about her role is that she gets the opportunity to train all new dining team members. Her career goal is to become a chef at Brandywine. She actively gets involved in the department and shares ideas on menu creation for community events. Her manager, Dane Shouder, values her input and is supportive of her goals. We are so proud of Solange and love having her as part of the Brandywine family. Congratulations, Solange, on being selected as the third quarter BrandySTAR at Mahwah!
Congratulations, Solange! PRINCETON
Faustina “Tina” Peprah, RN Wellness Nurse REFLECTIONS
Sara Davis, Lead Concierge THE SAVOY
Shaquille Sullivan, Chauffeur SEASIDE POINTE
Wendy Ford, Care Manager SENIOR SUITES
Brandee Johnson, Dining Room Supervisor THE SYCAMORE
Marian Pado, Care Manager TOMS RIVER
Antonio Campos, Chef UPPER PROVIDENCE
Tori Reihl, Chauffeur VOORHEES
Lesha Monk, Wellness Nurse WALL
Verna Gittens-Vaughan, Care Manager
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UPCOMING CLASSES 12/5
Brandywine University hosted Management Part II on October 17. The interactive session reminded the attendees that managers not only control the work of a department, but more importantly, must invest time in leading and guiding the teams that do the work. Being a manager means having a commitment to team success. Department success. Community success. Tips for Brandywine managers to be successful:
Dining Innovation Service Hospitality (DISH) • Create a productive and engaging work environment for team members
12/12 Reflections Certificate Program (RCP) 12/19 Company Orientation (CO)
• Inform team members about company policies and procedures • Teach effectively • Be present • Listen and get the team involved in the work that affects them What attendees are saying… “Great learning experience. I began using insights and new skills right away.” “Being able to hear other similar experiences and knowing other communities are going through the same issues you are going through was helpful.” “I enjoyed listening to other managers stories, opinions and input. It helps to hear how problems were solved.”
Shantelle McCullough (Escapades Producer at Upper Providence) discusses the importance of taking a few steps backward even after reacting in the moment.
Brandywine University is one vehicle to strengthen our management teams and our team members, assist in professional growth and guide individuals in their careers. As we take a winter break, think about your role at Brandywine. What training do you need to grow in your role? What skills do you want to develop? If you have suggestions for BU courses for 2019 please email us at BCE@brandycare.com Brandywine is a learning organization committed to training and development for our team members. Your success is our success.
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT DOESN’T STOP AT BU... Dear Brandywine Living, I want to take this time to thank you for assisting me in my journey in attaining the Licensed Practical Nurse degree from Union County College in Cranford, New Jersey. It was through the scholarship assistance program and time given to take courses, that I was able to earn my degree. I also would like to thank my supervisor, Kathy, managers, and my co-workers who pushed me through the many times that I questioned this journey. In 2006, I immigrated to the United States from Colombia in search of a better life. During those years, I had a tough time learing the culture and language. Brandywine welcomed me with open arms and assisted me with my dream of becoming a nurse. With all the support that I received, I see Brandywine like a second home. Six years later I have accomplished so much in the healthcare field. I find tremendous joy in working with the residents. I also learned a lot from working with clients in this specific population and have witnessed my growth and love for the health profession. Thank you from the deepest parts of my soul for the opportunity I have been given.
Vanessa Montes Avalos trades in her Care Manager title for Wellness Nurse.
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Celebrating Milestones at Brandywine… MILESTONES IN SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER! AN OFFICIAL “THANK YOU” FOR YOUR YEARS OF SERVICE!
5 YEAR
MILESTONE
BRANDALL WHEDBEE, MELISSA REFLECTIONS COORDINATOR
LONGWOOD SHANNON, JOAN BUTLER
COLTS NECK MODZELEWSKA, JOLANTA CARE MANAGER
MIDDLEBROOK CODDINGTON, JOLENE ESCAPADES EXPERT
DRESHER BRUCE-BROWN, EUGENNIE CARE MANAGER
MOORESTOWN BADIE, CHARLOTTE CARE MANAGER
DRESHER WILSON, JAMES HOUSEKEEPING ASSISTANT
MOORESTOWN HEIM, AIMEE WELLNESS NURSE
FENWICK RICKETTS, MEAGAN CARE MANAGER
MOUNTAIN RIDGE BAPTISTA, MILENE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
THE GABLES CASSIDY, DARREN CHEF
MOUNTAIN RIDGE BENJAMIN, MARGUERITE CARE MANAGER
THE GABLES MINGUELA, ABIGAIL CARE MANAGER
MOUNTAIN RIDGE MERIDA, BRENDA WAITRESS
GOVERNOR’S ANTWI, JOSEPHINE CARE MANAGER
MOUNTAIN RIDGE SHANMUGARAJAH, GNANESWARY WAITRESS
GOVERNOR’S TIMMER, MARIE ELIZABETH WELLNESS NURSE
PRINCETON DYER-THOMPSON, NARDIA WELLNESS NURSE
HADDONFIELD WYCKOFF, SIERRA CARE MANAGER
THE SAVOY PERETZ, ABBY DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS
HOWELL CLEMENTE, ANGELA CONCIERGE
SEASIDE POINTE BEHUN, DEBRA ESCAPADES EXPERT
HOWELL GORDON, LASHON CARE MANAGER
SENIOR SUITES CHARLES, MIMOSE CARE MANAGER
HOWELL MILLER, JENNIFER DINING ROOM SUPERVISOR
THE SYCAMORE CRUMPLER, ADRIENNE WELLNESS NURSE
HOWELL REED, KENDRA WELLNESS NURSE
TOMS RIVER SWEENEY, HELEN CARE MANAGER
HOWELL WALSH, KATHERINE WAITRESS
VOORHEES LOPRESTI, SUSAN ASSISTANT DINING SERVICE DIRECTOR
HUNTINGTON PUERTO - LAINEZ, GARY WAITER
VOORHEES WALKER, VELMA CARE MANAGER
HUNTINGTON WOLTMANN, KIM WELLNESS DIRECTOR
WALL HANDBERRY, GWENDOLYN CARE MANAGER
LONGWOOD DAVILA MEDINA, CARMEN HOUSEKEEPING ASSISTANT
20 YEAR MILESTONE * BRANDYWINE HONORS SENIORITY
Celebrating Her 30th Year Milestone! LYNNE MCARTHUR
BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER SENIOR SUITES
{ { “I have been very blessed to have been able to touch so many lives in these past 30 years. It warms my heart to know that I made a difference.”
Lynne started her career (prior to the community’s opening) as the Admissions Director in October, 1988. Her knowledge of the community’s history and her ties to the community, are a great asset to her team. When Lynne is not working, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family, including her father, who is a resident at Senior Suites.
Congrats Lynne! We look forward to many more years with you.
10 YEAR MILESTONE MOUNTAIN RIDGE NAGARAJAH, SARUKA DINING SERVICE DIRECTOR
SEASIDE POINTE FISHER, ANGEL HOUSEKEEPING ASSISTANT
THE GABLES SUTTON, PHILLIP CHEF
MOUNTAIN RIDGE PANCHALINGAM, PUTHIAMMA CARE MANAGER
UPPER PROVIDENCE MCCULLOUGH, SHANTELLE ESCAPADES PRODUCER
GOVERNOR’S LEWIS, JOHN HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR
PENNINGTON GAYLE, LORAINE WAITRESS
HAVERFORD LEE, SHAKIA INVEST COORDINATOR
THE SAVOY RAMBHAROS, NANDRANI CARE MANAGER
LONGWOOD BLANDY, JUSTIN ESCAPADES EXPERT
THE SAVOY SCOTT, MARCIA CARE MANAGER
LONGWOOD HUNT, CHRISTINE WELLNESS NURSE
THE SAVOY SMITH, JENNIFER CARE MANAGER
DRESHER NAVO, MORKEH CARE MANAGER
15 YEAR MILESTONE
THE GABLES COOPER, DAWN WELLNESS NURSE
PENNINGTON MARKULEC, JENNIFER WELLNESS DIRECTOR
WALL FARRELL, DONNA CONCIERGE
HUNTINGTON SEIDE, CATHY CARE MANAGER
SEASIDE POINTE HITCHENS, SHELLY ESCAPADES PRODUCER
WALL JEGLIKOWSKI, JANE WAITRESS
LITCHFIELD YURCHICK, TOBYLYNNE ESCAPADES PRODUCER
THE SYCAMORE THOMPSON, MIKEYIA CARE MANAGER
MOORESTOWN ROSS, JOHN ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE DIRECTOR
Next Tribute we Celebrate December, January and February!
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STEVE HEANEY
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND REAL ESTATE LEADERSHIP SERIES Steve, you have been hand selected to be interviewed for our new column called Leadership Series. It’s important for our team members to know the person behind the title. So, let’s start by sharing how you got into senior living. STEVE: Quite by accident. I worked my way through nursing school as an EMT thinking I was going to be a trauma nurse or flight nurse. My plan was to get my LPN and then continue on for my RN. When I graduated with my LPN I started working two part time jobs, one at Marriott Senior Living and the other at Whiting Healthcare, both in Ocean County, NJ in 1993. Ironically, the person who hired me at Whiting was Deb Ussery Stine (today...our Chief Nursing Officer and at the time Whiting was owned by Brenda Bacon, Peter J. Burke, Jr. and others before Brandywine started), but my time was short-lived... that’s a whole other story. Once I started working with seniors, I was hooked!
{ { “Steve is one of the first, if not the first call I make when the kingdom is under any risk. He is a rock and cares very deeply about his Brandywine family. I don’t know what I, or Brandywine, would do without him!”- Brenda
So, you started out as a nurse with an early connection to Brenda. What led you back to her and what other roles have you had here? STEVE: Wow, there have been many. When I first joined Brandywine in 1999, we were a nursing home company just getting into assisted living. I was hired as the Executive Director of The Gables (Brandywine’s first assisted living community). Then I was promoted to Regional Director of Assisted Living, Vice President of Assisted Living, Vice President of Development and now, I am the Vice President of Assisted Living & Real Estate.
What has been your favorite role so far at Brandywine and why? STEVE: I always have my Executive Director hat on and love being in the communities. The residents are the reason we are here and our staff are a special group of people. They are here because they want to be here. Let’s face it everyone needs a job - but it takes a special kind of person to be a caregiver.
• Possesses one of the first CALA’s (Certified Assisted Living Administrator) licenses in the state of New Jersey • Founding member of the New Jersey Assisted Living Council • Contributed to several pieces of legislation including the generator bill in assisted living • Represented assisted living nationally as the representative to the National Fire Protection Association 101 (Life Safety Code) Technical Committee and the NFPA 5000 (Building Construction and Safety Code Technical Committee) • Presents nationally on the topic of assisted living • Married to Dawn Heaney for 25+ years
In your years of working at Brandywine, what accomplishments are you most proud of? STEVE: It is not a personal accomplishment, but the accomplishments of our team. Our growth is the biggest thing to me. It’s amazing how we started out with just one assisted living home and now we have 29 communities and growing. To know that I had, and continue to have, a part in that is very satisfying to me. When I first told people I was leaving Marriott to go to this unknown company called Brandywine, they said I was crazy. All I can say is, who’s laughing now.
DID YOU KNOW?
• Two beautiful daughters, Christina, 23 and Emily, 20 Steve Heaney putting out fires, literally.
• Firefighter/EMT • Captain of his local volunteer fire company • EMS at the PNC Bank Arts Center
Steve and his family at Disney World.
NATIONAL ASSISTED LIVING W Livingston - French Bistro & Cafe
Litchfield - Gatsby Gala
Huntington Terrace - The Magical World of Disney
Fenwick Island - Capture an Adventure
Mountain Ridge - European Adventure
Middlebrook Crossing - Cruising the Countries Princeton - Tricky Tray Charity for St. Peter’s University Hospital Child Life Program
Alexandria - All-Star Obstacle Course
Longwood - Captured!
Brandall Estates - Catalina Wine Mixer
Howell - “This is Me” MOMA Museum
The Sycamore - Grandparents Day
Mahwah - Grandparents Day: Capture the Love
CLICK THE ICONS TO WATCH VIDEOS CAPTURED FOR NATIONAL ASSISTED LIVING WEEK!
Dresher Estates - Spirit Day
CONTEST VIDEO
MONTAGE VIDEO
Colts Neck - Cook-Off Challenge
WEEK 2018: WE PARTIED HARD!
Moorestown Estates - Nostalgic Moments
Senior Suites - Captain’s Table
Governor’s Crossing - Hawaiian Luau Party
Pennington - There’s No Place Like Home
Haddonfield - Culinary Cook Off
Toms River - Classic Car Show & Rock & Roll Show
Wall - Project Graduation Party
The Savoy - Coney Island Beach Party
Voorhees - Luau Party
The Gables - Best TV Commercials
Seaside Pointe - Decades Day
Upper Providence - Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre
Haverford Estates - Country Fair
Reflections - Reflections Goes to Hollywood
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LETTERS FROM FAMILY Good morning Robin, I wanted to pass along my appreciation and gratitude for all the help and support that we received from your group. We were in a very difficult position and it could have been an order of magnitude worse had obstacles not been removed as quickly as they arose. Amber is a superstar. Our original meeting and tour was professional yet very warm and relaxed. She made sure that everything was in place when it needed to be. Julie is a sweetheart and the help that we have received from Jeremy, Barb, Nanette, Allyson and Linda during move-in has been above and beyond.
The
LITCHFIELD TEAM
Everyone that we meet in the building is warm and friendly. Though the transition for Dad has been emotionally difficult, he is very happy with his surroundings and the absence of unnecessary drama. You should be very proud of the group and environment that you guide.
Thank you, Dan Kuhary To Management: I would like to commend Azar for her wonderful efforts at Brandywine Living Reflections. She does her work so creatively, and with great enthusiasm. All the many projects that she organizes and conducts everyday, as well as putting on ‘special events’ for the residents, with many clever details. There are themed get togethers (Teas with fancy hats, french themed days with special treats, and tomorrow a ‘pool party’ that I know will include many decorations and games, music and treats.) I’d like her to be recognized for her efforts. Azar is gentle, loving and kind to everyone I see there, whether residents or visiting relatives and friends. One could say that she was born for this job. There is always an extra ‘over and above’ element that Azar includes in all she presents and accomplishes. This is difficult on some days, when folks are out of sorts. But I have noticed that she will take someone’s hand and encourage their participation. She quietly goes forward to include and support everyone. Please acknowledge her for the extra effort and enthusiasm she brings to all she does!
Azar Tavakolzade INVEST COORDINATOR
Sincerely, Maxine Jacqmin Wife of Reflections resident, David Jacqmin
PRINCETON Azar says, “I feel very honored and I think that we all put our heart and soul into the work that we do. David, the Reflections resident, loves the Beatles. One of our favorite things is dancing and singing.” It’s not just Mrs. Jacqmin who’s noticed Azar’s hard work. Stephanie Gaber, Escapades Producer at Princeton says that Azar gives 100% always. Stephanie continues, “Azar is very creative, patient and a pleasure to work with.” Keep up the great work, Azar!
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To the Staff of Brandywine: I just wanted to drop you guys a line to thank you for the care and attention you gave to my mom, Margie Basmagy. We visited many facilities before settling on the Colts Neck Brandywine and I believe it was the best choice we could have made. My mom was a stubborn woman and caused great grief upon entering the facility, but with your care she came to settle into the routine. I visited as much as I could and always had nice interactions with all of you. I sometimes felt like I was intruding on my mom’s time with you guys and I am comforted in knowing she was well cared for. On the day of Mom’s passing she went peacefully surrounded by family and the staff again was attentive and helpful. I was deeply touched by those staff members who came by to say goodbye to her and to us after she passed. I will always look back to her time there as the best we could have provided given her situation.
YOU CAN TEACH SKILL, BUT YOU CAN’T TEACH
HEART!
I thank you all once again and would not hesitate to recommend your facility to anyone in need of such services. You guys are truly angels walking on earth.
Best regards to you all, Jerard Basmagy “Margie was an amazing woman. She was very kind to everyone and always had a smile on her face that brightened up the room. The staff gave Marge the nickname, “Cookie”, which always made her laugh. Marge had a great sense of humor and loved her sons and family dearly. She always wanted the best for everyone. She is dearly missed by the staff and residents here at Colts Neck.”- Tara Spillane, Escapades Producer at Colts Neck
Our Mission
Brandywine Living will provide our residents with the highest quality care in the most appropriate setting based on an individual’s needs while respecting their individuality, independence and dignity.
Our Core Values •
• • •
•
We believe that every resident has the right to be treated with dignity and respect and has the right of self-determination. We believe in delivering the best quality service possible to those who have put their trust in us. We believe that honesty, integrity, caring and thoughtfulness are as important as the health care we provide. We believe that our residents are active, joyful and fascinating individuals who will continue to learn and grow each day and will contribute to our learning and growing as well. We believe that great care is a team effort where ideas, collaboration, and mutual respect for each team member’s efforts and contributions are essential to the result.
Mary & John
Mary Shusted is a Reflections resident at Brandywine Living at Haddonfield. She has a very soft personality and her smile infects the community and the people. Mary’s grandson, Paul, and his wife, Amanda, although they live in California, chose to marry at a local venue, Tavistock, in Haddonfield, because of the close relationship they share with Mary.
The wedding was on a Sunday. Mary’s family did not feel comfortable transporting her to the wedding so they asked if the Brandywine Living at Haddonfield team could help.
REFLECTIONS
John Dunn is Haddonfield’s Chauffer and enjoys his job. He hosts a popular Men’s Club at the community and he’s built relationships with all the residents and families at Haddonfield, including Mary. When he heard that Mary needed transportation to her grandson’s wedding, he gladly gave up his Sunday, usually spent watching the Philadelphia Eagles, to be her date. He drove to the community in a suit to escort Mary to the one o’clock nuptials. Although they did not get a chance to share a dance, they had a great time. John said, “I totally enjoyed myself and it felt good to be a part of Mary and her family’s celebration. This is the best job ever!”
eflections MEMORY CARE PROGRAM
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WHAT’S GOING ON AR The Brandywime Babes Jamie Donelan (Reflections Coordinator at Middlebrook Crossing) gave birth to Noah on July 10th. He weighed 7lbs and measured 20 inches. Little brother and big brother cuddle together after meeting for the first time.
Congrats to Melinda Deitrick (Concierge at Middlebrook Crossing) who gave birth to Logan Edward, on October 8th. He weighed 6lbs 10oz. Logan joins his big brother, Jace.
Congrats to Shamira Thomas (Wellness Nurse at Middlebrook Crossing) who gave birth to her second child, Tajay Grayson, on September 12th. He weighed 6lbs 14oz. Tajay joins his big
Congratulations to Cyndia Wright (Care Manager at Longwood) who gave birth to her baby boy, Josiah Jeremiah Gardener, on August 13th. He weighed 8lbs 12oz!
sister, Saniya.
HATS off to the
GRADS Congrats to Asia Dixon (Waitress at The Gables) for completing her Basic Culinary and Sanitation Course at Fulfill’s Culinary Arts Training Program in August. Asia will now be training to be part of our Brandywine Team of Chefs!
John Ross (Environmental Service Director at Moorestown Estates) was a proud dad on September 21st when his son, Zachary Ross, graduated from the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. Great achievement, Zachary!
Shanta Kaye (Care Manager at Dresher Estates) became an American citizen on August 20th. She is also in her last semester of Nursing school at Holy Family. We are very proud of her!
ROUND THE KINGDOM
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Wedding Bells are Ringing
Melecia Williams (Care Manager at Senior Suites) gave birth to a healthy baby boy, Kaylon, on August 1st. He weighed 8lbs 8oz. Congrats, Melecia!
Congrats to Tara Spillane (Escapades Producer at Reflections at Colts Neck) who married her sweetheart, Andrew, on September 14th. Beautiful dress!
Congrats to Peggy Jones (Waitress at Seaside Pointe) who married her honey, Bradon, on August 11th. What a handsome couple!
Sara Davis (Concierge at Reflections) and her husband, Don, was blessed with twin grandchildren on October 2nd. Emma, her granddaughter, weighed 7lbs 8oz and Owen, her grandson, weighed 5lbs 10oz. Congrats to the first time grandparents!
Lennon Pukowsky (Programmer at Corporate) married his beautiful wife, Jessica, on October 19th. Congrats to the both of you!
Reshell Truitt (INVEST Coordinator at Seaside Pointe) married her love, Clifton Truitt, on August 16th. Congrats to the two lovebirds!
We Remember Patricia Nagel Galilee ‘Lilli’ Rodriguez (Concierge at Haddonfield) has been part of the Brandywine family from the beginning. She was a full time nursing student and a part time Concierge. We are happy to announce she is now a Registered Nurse after graduating from Our Lady of Lourdes Nursing Program. Congrats, Lilli!
Pat, Patty Cakes, passed away in September, 2018. She worked at Brandywine at Middlebrook Crossing since 2005 as the Assistant Director of Nursing. Pat was a true team player and will be greatly missed by everyone at Middlebrook!
Changing Lives Outside OF BRANDYWINE
Hey Fran! Charlie Placek, Executive Director at Governor’s Crossing, told us that you went to North Carolina after the storm, to volunteer through the Red Cross. Can you share a bit more? I traveled to Durham, North Carolina for approximately two weeks after the storm hit. I was there from October 1st through the 15th. The Red Cross met me there when I arrived. Although the trip started out in Durham, we traveled to other sections of North Carolina - wherever we were needed. Volunteers came from Hawaii, California, Canada, etc. When I told them I’m from New Jersey, they’d say they know, because of my accent. Wow, that’s amazing! What about sleeping arrangements, where’d you lay your head at nights? I slept in a warehouse, a gym (that was no longer in use) and a community center. The lights came on at 6am and turned off at 10pm. Okay not bad. And who’s got time for comfort when you’re there to help people who are really discomforted. Really puts things into perspective. How were things organized while you were there?
Fran Colon
WELLNESS NURSE
GOVERNOR’S CROSSING
We’d go out in teams of six. Each team had a nurse, chaplain, social worker, mental health professional, case worker and a rep to handle the logistics. I’ve been a nurse since 1976 and always felt the need to help people. When the storm hit, I saw an opportunity to help and had the time to do it. I felt the need to be there even though I’ve never done anything like this before.
Very organized, and it’s always wonderful when you take the time to do something selfless and great. What about your experience? Anything heartfelt that you can share? While I was there, I saw a lot of hardship and loss - loss of life but mostly material things. Children asked me to help them find their dogs, although I knew we wouldn’t be able to. They wanted me to help them find their toys. They’d say, “I had toys but I don’t have them anymore.” I let them know that they’d get new toys. Everyone’s attitude left an impression on me. Their attitude wasn’t ‘woe is me’ it was ‘it’s okay, these are material things and it can be rebuilt.’ What a tremendous ordeal for children to experience, but glad you were there to help them through it. Although the impact was great on the adults and the children, did this trip have an impact on you? Yes, everyone’s attitude. People didn’t dwell on the material loss and the hardship. They had that moment of loss and they knew they had to move on and rebuild. People wanted hugs and to be told it would get better. This experience made me look at the world in other people’s eyes, don’t sweat the small stuff and help one another.
Do you have a Changing Lives Outside of Brandywine Living story to share? Send us an email at thetribute@brandycare.com.
TAKE THE SURVEY! Tell us what you liked, want to see more of and perhaps a new idea.
Fran (far left) poses with her Red Cross team and local residents.
HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS LATEST EDITION OF THE TRIBUTE! If you have a special story or accomplishment to share, please send to thetribute@brandycare.com.
Corporate Office: 525 Fellowship Road, Suite 360 | Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 | 856.813.2000 | 1.877.4BRANDY | www.brandycare.com