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A Community Paper sharing the stories of the largest not-for-profit continuing care organization in Atlantic Canada Summer 2019
Volume 2, Issue 1
Live More Awards Gala Raises over $250,000 The Northwood Foundation’s Live More Awards gala, presented by Shannex, took place on June 1, raising over $250,000 to help support programs and initiatives here at Northwood that aren’t funded by the government. In the past, the funds from this gala have been used to make the Kaye’s Place, the Bedford Campus Café, Cozy Corners and the Pauline Potter Fitness Centre possible. “We’re committed to ensuring that our residents and clients are living more,” says Janet Simm, President & CEO of Northwood. “Being a not-for-profit means the funds raised at the Live More Awards support initiatives that improve the quality of life for those living in our community.” Continued on page 6
Melanie Gaunt kicks off the True Doors Fund-A-Need.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Visits Northwood Page 8
TGIF - Thank God I'm Page 9 Female
A Wedding at Northwood
Page 11
Northwood Encores Perform Grand Mamma Mia! Page 13
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Message from Janet Simm, President & CEO I don’t want to jinx it but I think the warm weather is here for good in Nova Scotia, bringing with it a lot of fun activities, events and celebrations being held across the Northwood Community. The Northwood Foundation just wrapped up their biggest event of the year, the Northwood Live More Awards. We are so proud to announce that they raised more than $250,000 to help fund programs and initiatives offered by Northwood that are not funded by the government. These funds will directly support and improve the quality of life of those in our community. On behalf of the entire Northwood community, I want to
extend the deepest of thanks to our Foundation and to each and every sponsor and donor who contributed to making this event the success that it was. It was an incredibly fun night that filled our hearts with so much pride for what we do at Northwood! You can read more about the event and those who were honoured in the cover story. We are in the final year of our strategy to action plan 2014-2020 and we've accomplished so much. Northwood has a longstanding tradition of challenging the status quo. We aren’t afraid to try new things. That’s why it’s with much enthusiasm that I share that Northwood
Four members of the Northwood Board of Governors will be stepping down this year. We’d like to thank Susan Kirkland, Alice Leverman, David Morrison and Michael Sherar for their years of dedicated service to Northwood. Their dedication and commitment to Northwood’s Mission, Vision and Values has had a positive impact on the lives of Northwood’s residents and clients. Their contribution is very much appreciated.
has been awarded funding through AGE-WELL, Canada’s technology and aging network, to explore SMART tech solutions to support increased quality of life for residents and clients who live in continuing care. You can read more about this exciting new journey Northwood will be embarking on with Dr. Susan Kirkland, long-time member of the Northwood Board of Governors at the helm on page 4. Construction is well underway at the site of our newest building in Bedford – Northwood Place. We have had much interest from the community about this building. I want to encourage you to reach out to Lynn at
Janet Simm, Northwood President & CEO
902-407-8552 if you have questions about the building or would like more information. I hope you enjoy the fifth edition of our community newspaper and reading about the wonderful things that have been going on at Northwood over the last few months as well as upcoming events and celebrations to put in your calendar.
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New Program Seeks the Insights of Older Adults in Nova Scotia Members of the Northwood community have been taking part in a program called “ACT” or Age Care Technologies. ACT is a powerful assessment tool that better aligns Nova Scotians with the services and tools available to them. It involves completing a phone survey with older adults to gain their insights. “Participants appreciate that they are being asked to provide their voice and that their experience is being captured and used to guide decisions that are being made at Northwood and in the province of Nova Scotia,” says Margaret Szabo, Northwood’s Director of Business Development. “It has been very enlightening for us at Northwood to recognize the fact that older people see the world quite differently than we as seasoned service providers expected.” The conversations we had through the assessment have broadened our perspective and created a more balanced understanding of well-being and personal empowerment via social engagement, emotional health and pursuit of healthy behaviors. What have we learned? That as providers, we tended to look at well-being as an older person’s ability to manage their physical needs, and measured our success by the tasks we completed. In contrast, the older adults we spoke with defined well-being as pride in life accomplishments, continued connections with community and family, control over their
follow-up survey tracking. environment and the abilWhat’s next? We’re now ity to give back to those on the cutting edge of a they love. Those we spoke cultural change that values with appreciated the opthe beliefs and contribuportunity to speak about tions of older adults. ACT the concerns in their is a transformational, lives and to demonstrate high-value partnership their efforts to care for that offers systems and themselves and for others. supports that will drive a They valued the chance responsive, personalized to express themselves and approach to our service amplify the voice of older planning and social investpeople. We were able to ment. Together, we can find simple ways to help contribute to the developand support those with imment of innovation in Atmediate needs. We learned lantic Canada that respectthat effective advocacy in fully amplifies the voice of a community means recolder adults while building ognizing that trust and provincial capacity in aged relationships are central Volunteer completing an ACT phone care. Northwood is an orto well-being for older ganization rooted in social adults. We can now revisit survey assessment. justice, founded in 1962 as program planning and interested in partnering with Nova Scotia’s original senior resource investment as we better understand the priori- a sheltered workshop to bring citizen advocate. We know our ties and concerns of those we in more affordable meals, hav- founder, Ed Roach, would be ing our teams share resources proud of this evidence-based serve. We’ll be exploring new to better service the Fitness work that engages and emprograms and initiatives for Centre, creating an Internet powers older adults to continNorthwood that reflect what Café and tech learning proue to enjoy a life of belonging, we heard. For example, we’re grams for older adults and dignity and choice.
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Publisher Northwood Communications Editor Jenna Farrell Communications & Marketing Specialist Stephanie McDougall 902-493-3016 smcdougall@nwood.ns.ca Communications Assistants Jenna Farrell 902-454-3342 jenna.farrell@nwood.ns.ca Alyson Estey 902-454-3377 alyson.estey@nwood.ns.ca Graphic Designer Erin Gidney Production Manager Vicki Hines Printing Advocate Printing & Publishing
FOR ADVERTISING SALES CONTACT: publishers@metroguide.ca Tel. 902-420-9943 For more information, please contact Northwood Corporate Office, Suite 1 South, 130 Eileen Stubbs Ave., Dartmouth, NS B3B 2C4 902-425-2273 information@nwood.ns.ca www.northwood.care
John Hamblin, Northwood Volunteer and Consultant on Senior Living, Nancy Phillips, VP Investment, Trade & International Partnerships at Halifax Partnership, Mayor Mike Savage, Michael Cullen, Co-Founder of Novalte, Bob Williamson, Founder of Jameson Group & Margaret Szabo, Northwood’s Director of Business Development, celebrating the partnerships formed by the AGE-WELL grant. (Photo submitted by Office of the Mayor).
Northwood Receives AGE-WELL Grant Northwood, in collaboration with national and international partners, has been awarded funding through AGE-WELL, Canada’s Technology and Aging Network. This funding will help advance research on technology solutions in continuing care. The research team is led by Dr. Susan Kirkland, a long-time member of the Northwood Board of Governors. Dr. Kirkland is a Professor and Head of the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology at Dalhousie University and Central Zone NSHA. “Over the next year, our team will set the stage for future success. We will continue to build partnerships
and team capacity, develop knowledge mobilization and commercialization plans, strengthen relationships with stakeholders, develop collaborations with other AGE-WELL projects and recruit the full research team,” says Dr. Kirkland. “The team will be ready to hit the ground running in April 2020.” The team will explore the feasibility, usability, sustainability and scalability of SMART tech solutions to support increased quality of life for residents and clients in continuing care. The team has been allocated a Catalyst Award of $30,000 for one year of seed funding. Projects that demonstrate
sufficient progress during the catalyst phase will be selected for three-year funding of up to $600,000, commencing April 1, 2020 as part of AGE-WELL’s Core Research Program, contingent on AGE-WELL’s renewal. “The research team will be embedded in the Northwood community enabling rich daily connections with residents, staff and families,” says Margaret Szabo, Northwood’s Director of Business Development and Project Co-lead. “Northwood is so excited to act as a living innovation lab, driving action-orientated research that can directly help older adults to LIVE MORE.”
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Comment Cards: Taking the Stairs Challenge Each of our locations has a comment box and comment cards that we invite any and all visitors, residents, staff and community members to use to offer feedback. These comments are compiled and given to management for review at Quality Council on a monthly basis where solutions are discussed and put into action. We have received a number of comment cards about elevator crowding and wait times at the Halifax Campus.
Many cards indicated that staff using the elevator to go up or down only one or two floors is a big contributor to the congestion and long waits to use the elevators. We encourage staff who are able-bodied to practice good elevator etiquette and use the stairs as much as possible to free up the elevators for those who are unable to use the stairs. To help encourage staff in Halifax to start using the stairs, our Organizational
Health team is putting on a “Take the Stairs Challenge,” which launched on June 12. Staff that want to participate were given a pedometer to record their steps. For one month, everyone will be encouraged to send in their steps to Vanessa Roy. The top 15 will be entered into a draw to win a Fitbit Versa, provided by the Personal Insurance! Contest ends July 12. Taking the stairs as much as possible will do more than just decrease crowding
on our elevators, it’s great for our physical health too! Taking the stairs can lead to improved cardiovascular health and stronger joints and muscles.
The Northwood Foundation
2019 Hedley G. Ivany Live More Awards Recipient: Joseph Shannon Joseph Shannon was born to a barber and stay-at-home mother in Sydney, Nova Scotia on January 18, 1940. The second of ten brothers and sisters, Joe chose to leave school after grade ten to join the workforce and help support his family. Dedication to family and hard work continued to guide Joe as he built a group of market-leading companies based on simple business principles: place clients first, stay true to your values, treat people well and reinvest in your vision. Today, Atlantic Corporation Limited includes companies in the transportation, health care, information technology, real estate and construction sectors.
Joe’s success has done nothing to diminish his deep connection to Cape Breton. Throughout his life he has given back to the community with gifts to Cape Breton University, the QEII Hospital Foundation, St. Martha’s Regional Hospital and organizations in Cape Breton and other communities where Atlantic Corporation businesses operate. He has also generously donated his time to help raise millions of dollars for a variety of healthcare and educational initiatives. Joe has five children and 14 grandchildren. Together, the Shannon family continues to work in the family business and make a difference in the lives of Atlantic Canadians.
Joe soon recognized that what began as a good deed was an opportunity to change the way people live in long term care. And his realization started the Shannon family on a path of improving the lives of seniors in their own community and others well beyond Cape Breton. Under Joe’s leadership, Shannex is an organization that shares Northwood’s commitment to social jusJoseph Shannon accepts the tice and belief that people Hedley G. Ivany Live More deserve to live with dignity Award. and respect – no matter what their age, or stage of life. JoSome of their most meaning- seph Shannon and his entire ful work began more than family are extremely hon30 years ago, when Joe puroured to celebrate his recogchased a struggling nursing nition alongside such notable home in Sydney, Cape Breton. nominees.
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The Northwood Foundation Live More Awards Gala Raises over $250,000 Continued from page 1 This year’s event saw more than 500 guests, supporting Northwood through sponsorships, donations, purchasing tickets and participating in a live and silent auction, raffle and a UPICK game. Men of the Deeps, a coal miners chorus from Cape Breton, joined us for a surprise performance organized by the Shannon family. New this year, we welcomed Layne the Auctionista to put on our fund-a-need and live auction. Layne’s signature high-octane performance and live fundraising style entertains, captivates and inspires giving. With Layne's help, we were able fulfill our fund-a-need goal and will be purchasing 132 True Doors for the Bedford Campus. True Doors are a special decal that make a resident room door look like a real front door, creating a more home-like space and increasing privacy (read more about True Doors on page 10). The Northwood Founda-
tion is so excited about the results of the event, and appreciates the generosity and effort of everyone involved. “An event of this caliber is not possible without the support of our donors, volunteers and community,” says Faye LeBlanc, Managing Director of the Northwood Foundation. “A very special thank you to all of our corporate sponsors, especially our presenting sponsor, Shannex Inc. Your commitment to Northwood is inspiring and it’s because of support from people like you that we can always be working to improve the lives of our residents and clients.” This year’s Live More Awards gala was a huge success, but the event is more than just a fundraiser. The gala also recognized community members who embody the spirit of Northwood. Mr. Joseph Shannon was this year’s featured honouree, receiving the Hedley G. Ivany Live More Award
Men of the Deeps perform for the crowd.
Distinction Award Winners with Janet Simm (L-R John Hamblin, Keara Mader on behalf of the CPA Student Volunteers, Jenna Chisholm, Dr. Ardra Cole, Terry Goldsmith & Sarah Bray on behalf of the SMU Service Learning Students, Tommy LeBlanc).
Layne the Auctionista. (All photos by Michelle Doucette Photography)
– celebrating a lifelong practice of giving back. Six other individuals were presented with distinction awards, being recognized for their contributions to research, innovation, advocacy, diversity,
community and loving care – the six pillars of Northwood. This year’s distinction award recipients were: Dr. Ardra Cole for research, Saint Mary’s University Service Learning Continued on page 7
Mike Cowie and the Vibe Quartet.
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The Northwood Foundation Live More Awards Gala Raises over $250,000 Continued from page 6 Students for innovation, John Hamblin for advocacy, Jenna Chisholm for diversity, Charles P. Allen Student Volunteers for community and Tommy LeBlanc for loving care. A huge congratulations
to everyone who received an award, all the event’s volunteers and the Northwood staff who worked so hard to make the event a success. Be on the lookout for new initiatives coming this year as a result of the funds raised at the Live More Awards.
Event volunteers with Andy Fillmore, MP.
thank you to our sponsors
PRESENTING
Platinum
Gold
Save the Date!
Silver
The 2019 Live More Walk will be held on September 28 at the Halifax Campus! Mark your calendars and come out to walk with us for DIGNITY! All money raised goes to Northwood’s Dignified Living Fund. More details to come. Print sponsor
POS Sponsor
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Halifax Campus
TGIF – Thank God I’m Female On the evening of May 30, a group of women filled the recreation therapy room at Northwood’s Halifax Campus. This is the time when these women to get together and talk, eat, laugh, and discuss various things, including their next outing. This club is called TGIF, which stands for ‘Thank God I’m Female.’ “In total it’s been around for about 10 years, it stopped for a while and restarted again,” says Ashley Penton, Recreation Therapist at Northwood. “We have around 11-14 people come regularly.” The TGIF Club meets once a week for coffee and conversation. They talk about anything from pop culture, to
baking, to their past. “We talk about anything, pop culture, like the royal wedding and baby,” says Ashley. “I can’t believe what they decided to name the baby!” says Barb, a TGIF member. They also get together a few more times a month, going on outings. In the past they’ve gone shopping, to a museum. One month they went to see A Star is Born in theatres. “I loved it, I watched the movie three times,” says Jackie, a TGIF member. “She can really sing.” “During our coffee and conversation is when we plan our next supper or outing,” says Barb.
Ice Cream Summer Socials Ice cream summer socials will be back at the Halifax Campus this summer! Throughout the months of July and August, the socials will kick off at 2 p.m. in the Shirley Burnstein Hall and feature musical entertainment, ice cream sundaes and a few more fun surprises! Residents will be able to invite up to 2 guests to attend the summer social with them. Admission for guests will be $2, residents will be free.
Dates Floors July 10 7,8,9 Manor July 17 1 Centre, 3,4 Manor July 24 2, 3 Centre July 31 5,6,10,11 Manor August 7 4, 5 Centre August 14 6, 7 Centre
A great time was had at last year’s Summer Socials
The women explained they love getting out to see people they don’t typically see on their floors. Friendships are made and you get to meet people from all over, different ages and from different areas in the Northwood buildings.
“I like it because I get to meet the other ladies, they are all different ages with different opinions,” says Jackie. “It’s nice to come out into a new space, outside of the dining room.”
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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Visits Northwood On March 28, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited the Halifax Campus. Mr. Trudeau spent time with a group of residents in Kaye’s Place to discuss the recently announced Pharmacare program, answering their questions and addressing their concerns. He then moved into the Shirley Burnstein Hall where he went around the room to shake hands with residents and staff. Some photos from the event are below! (All photos by Adam Scotti)
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Bedford Campus
True Doors At Northwood, we try to take every opportunity to better the lives of our residents. One way we have done this is through True Doors. True Doors is a company that creates unique decals for doors in care facilities which look like traditional front doors. True Doors are a special way for those with dementia to find their way around and to promote privacy for all residents. With a unique door, there is a greater chance of people knocking before entering and it is less likely that people will enter a room that isn’t theirs. Additionally, these doors create conversa-
tions and social engagements related to the uniqueness of each door. It adds a home-like feel for residents and gives them pride in their door. Through a pilot project, we installed 12 True Doors at our Bedford Campus which have had a positive impact felt by many. “If I were to use one word to describe the impact to a resident, I would start by saying: we all know that feeling of coming home after a long day or an activity and walking through our front door, and that sense of relief, and safety, and ‘this is home’ and it’s comforting,” says Jennifer Tucker, Clinical Practice
Jean Cole & Jennifer Tucker admire Jean's True Door.
Manager at Northwood. “So I think I would use the word comforting.” We’re going to spread that impact by installing more True Doors throughout the
Bedford Campus. At this year’s Live More Awards, we were able to raise enough funds to purchase 132 more True Doors for the Bedford Campus.
Food Truck Rally On May 16, our Community Recreation & Wellness team partnered with Shaw Lifestyle to host a Food Truck Rally in the William E. Frank Live More Park. Funds from a grant through TD Park People supported the event. Austin England performed and eight food trucks served up delicious treats to over 900 people in attendance. The rally was a huge success! Community groups set up booths in the park including Community Health Teams, Halifax Public Library and Halifax Regional Police. These booths had everything from a giant game
of snakes and ladders to a fun plinko board, roulette and trivia for prizes. At this event we held our first community engagement session for the future Northwood Place community centre. We gathered feedback from the community about what they’d like to see in the centre, all of which will be taken into consideration. We plan to host more sessions and learn more about what recreational programming the community would like to see in this new space. We would also like to thank all of the food trucks that were present: Bud the
Spud, Purple People Feeder, Asado, Daily Grind Coffee,
BeaverTails, Jamaica-Lee and Bangkok.
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Retirement Living
A Wedding at Northwood When you think of the Harbourview Lounge at Northwood’s Halifax Campus, often it’s of events, socializing and the newly renovated bar. Barbara McDuff saw an opportunity for a wedding venue. “Everything went so well,” says Barbra. “It was a dream.” On June 7, the Harbourview Lounge Bar was filled with the family members of Barry Miller and Barbara McDuff as they exchanged vows. “It is a really nice place,” says Barbra. “Everyone loved it.” Barry and Barbra are living together at Northwood’s Almon Place now, but Barbara has been living there for nearly 10 years. Having the wedding at Northwood meant Barbra’s mother
could attend as well, who lives in the Manor. Barbara and Barry met three years ago. Their relationship was long-distance, but they got together and enjoyed attending Northwood dances together. “We went to the winter formal and the Valentine’s Day dance,” says Barbara. “We really enjoyed going to those.” It only took Barry and Barbra a few weeks to plan their wedding, but she says she couldn’t have done it without the help of Northwood. “I want to say thank you to the people at Northwood for helping us plan this wedding,” says Barbara. “Everything just fell into place and it was perfect.”
Barry Miller and Barbra McDuff exchange vows in the Harbourview Lounge bar.
Outstanding Senior: Judi Quann By: Jill Chappell, Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
If you walk down the ninth floor of Northwood Manor, you’ll discover an art display. One painting stands out: a large white schooner set amidst dark skies and whitecapped waters. Judi Quann describes it as a metaphor for her life. Judi Quann has overcome many challenges with mental illness and addiction to get to where she is today. Her first husband struggled with mental illness upon returning from service in Bosnia which led to her own experience with depression and their divorce. Her second mar-
riage ended abruptly when her family detected signs of mental distress. When Judi arrived at Northwood three years ago, she was encouraged to take advantage of the services offered through her Mental Health & Wellness Support program. Proudly funded by the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, Seeds of Success helps residents living with mental illness find balance in all aspects of life through weekly programming. Now Judi paints so much that she has brightened the hallway for residents and staff. She also continually makes time for her fellow seniors. Despite her exhaust-
ing tri-weekly dialysis treatments, Judi goes out of her way to help others “I don’t think about it. Honestly, I don’t,” says Judi. “Sometimes it’s just a quick help and other times it’s a hug or whatever. Once I know they’re ok, I just get on
with other stuff.” Once caught in a storm, Judi has emerged stronger, full of creativity and more compassionate than ever before. She continues to inspire others with her positive outlook and resiliency every day.
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Community Recreation & Wellness
Outdoor Movies Coming to the William E. Frank Live More Park
Summer Event Info
Community Recreation & Wellness has an exciting announcement for the upcoming summer. The William E. Frank Live More Park will show an outdoor movie on the third Thursday of every month! Starting July 18 and
We may have just wrapped up our block parties and Live More Awards but there’s still lots to do at Northwood this summer! Pick up a summer issue of Community Recreation & Wellness Program Guide to see the exciting events happening at both campuses. Contact them at 902-454-3351 if you would like to become a member to receive special member rates for events and trips. Here are a few upcoming events: Movies in the Park: Starting in July, every third Thursday of the month we will be showing a movie in the William E. Frank Live More Park at our Bedford Campus. Garden Classes: Once a month, we’ll host garden classes in the William E. Frank Live More Park. These classes are $3 for non-members, free for members. Pop-Up Libraries: We’ve partnered with Halifax Public Libraries to provide Pop-Up Libraries at our Bedford Campus. Offered every third Thursday of the month, this gives residents and the community the chance to check out the latest books and return ones they may have already borrowed. Device Assistant Clinics: Facilitated by Halifax
going through to October 17, there will be a movie played that is open to our residents and the surrounding Bedford Community. So grab your chairs, blankets and grab some popcorn for a family film!
Public Libraries, these will be held at the Halifax Campus. You’re welcome to bring your phones, tablets and computers and have questions answered about how to navigate these devices. Community Health Team Programs: The Bedford Campus will be hosting talks from the Community Health Teams at the Nova Scotia Health Authority. One regarding Fat Sugar and Salt, where you can learn the real science on these health topics. The second will be Food for One or Two, a class where you’ll get quick and healthy recipes and resources for one or two people. There is no actual cooking in this program. Community Health Teams will also be visiting the Halifax Campus and hosting sessions called Craving Change. This will discuss our thoughts on food and why we eat the way we do. Bus Tours: A Trip Down Memory Lane on July 22. A Bus will be going from the Bedford and Halifax Campuses to Memory Lane Heritage Village in Lake Charlotte. The cost is $50 for members and $70 for non-members. Register by July 8 at crec@nwood. ns.ca or call 902-454-3351.
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Community Recreation & Wellness
Northwood Encores Perform Grand Mamma Mia! On May 30, the Northwood Encores put on the semester’s final performance in the Shirley Burnstein Hall – Grand Mamma Mia! Set on a cruise ship and jam-packed with hits from Mamma Mia, Chicago, Anything Goes, South Pacific and many more, Northwood Encore’s original dessert-theatre production was a fabulous ship of a show. Northwood Encores are directed by acclaimed, international musical theatre director, Patrick Maubert. The group is run through Community Recreation & Wellness and features Northwood residents, tenants and community members. “Seeing Grand Mamma Mia come to life was a real pleasure,” says Patrick. “Experiencing all cast members grow in both musical theatre technique and confidence was astounding. See-
ing this team come together in friendship and joy was an absolute gift.” Be on the lookout for more coming from the Northwood Encores.
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Submissions
My Life with Dennis By: Lynn Eyland
So this is what growing up feels like‌ your love story ends abruptly leaving deep scars where your perfect future once lived. I was in the midst of going to college, and I was dealt a life changing blow. I was diagnosed with MS, and not knowing anything about this, I just saw wheelchairs in my mind! The love of my life just couldn't accept it and left me. I went on with my life denying that I had this disease! I mean "I felt fine!" The world went on, my friends found partners and settled down. But, weddings were never my thing anyway, I had never really imagined having a wedding. My parents eloped so no wedding pictures around. Unlike other young girls my age, I didn't dream of a big white wedding. But what I really wanted was a relationship with a guy who would take me as I am, and really get to know me! I was never afraid of being alone forever. With the outgoing personality I got from my Dad, I knew I would meet someone someday.
I did nurture a few failed relationships and even tried online dating with the desire just to have someone to talk with. Most of my potential dates waited for me in a coffee shop but cancelled the big romantic plan when they caught sight of the walker in front of me. I went to a psychic (I believe in all that stuff), to ask about my future, I asked specifically about my love life. He was positive about it telling me how long my life line was and he told me that I would meet someone later in life.
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I thought he meant when I was 80 or 90, but he meant that I would meet someone eventually! There I was, age 58 and I just wanted a relationship like my parents. To at least meet someone to get along with. Just a companion, even. I was invited to a birthday party for my friend Tom. It was disco themed, with large disco balls on the ceiling and everyone in bright neon colored clothes of the 70's! I met up with some enthusiastic ladies on the dance floor, swinging my light green dress to "Staying Alive." I noticed Dennis in a wheelchair quite far away from me who I met a few years ago at Boccia. After the party, I had to take a cab home, so Dennis and I chatted about movies, etc. on the front porch of the building. Dennis told me later that he was thinking "That is the last time I'll see her! Oh, well she is out of my league anyway!" He obviously changed
Submissions for this newspaper can be sent to communications@nwood.ns.ca for consideration. Please note: not all submissions can be printed.
his mind because he got my number from Tom and called the next week. The rest is history! I was talking with my dear friend, Tammy, whose shoulder I would cry on in my lonelier days. She told me that God brought us together. I told Dennis that and he said "No, you are pretty and you laugh at my weird sense of humour!" To me I do believe there was some divine intervention. Dennis was a truck-driver and mover for many years until he was diagnosed with cerebellum degeneration. Our diseases were similar in many ways so we had good understanding of each other’s physical challenges. Also, we both had unfortunate relationships over the years. We have concluded that our previous lives were the training we needed to be with each other. He says his goal is to make me laugh, and he does! He reminds me of my dad and the way he would joke with my mom. He really gets me! Dennis' theory about our lives is "tomorrow is not promised, so have as much fun as you can while we are here!" A couple of years ago on our second anniversary of meeting, Dennis gave me a diamond ring to say "I am yours and you are mine." That is our commitment to each other for now. My life has definitely improved since meeting Dennis, and if you asked him, I think he would agree. (But I'm sure he'd make a joke about you asking such a stupid question). And isn't that what a relationship is all about?
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Submissions
Prime Minister Visit By: Sharon Murphy
The prime minister visited Northwood last week it was such a meaningful experience for all of us both staff and residents. It was so wonderful to experience a sense of respect and inclusion, from a public figure like the primeminister. As seniors it is something we do not experience often. I must say the prime-minister shook every residents hand and it gave us all a sense of personal connection with him. It was a breathtaking experience for a woman, who grew up in poverty, to have her picture taken smiling with the prime-minister as an adult. We certainly came from different backgrounds but I felt like this was a special moment. And that we both had a common empathy for people living in poverty which bought me into social work and probably the
Sharon Murphy poses with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
prime-minister into politics. I know I certainly didn’t have the power or influence of the prime-minister. However, I hope in my 40 years in social work I help people in my own way. I guess what it boils down to is, the common good, people sharing and giving toward a common good all of humanity. It is what brings meaning to our lives, and a sense of the joy of giving.
God's Angels are Our Nurses and my body aches For I have been working I am a nurse and caring for many long hours and can people is where I belong barely stay awake A patient's well-being and But I will be there standneed keeps me strong ing beside you with a gentle A fevered brow an ache touch or pain I only show caring And my strength when the never distain pain is too much At times I have to hold My family and needs of my back my tears patients will forever come But I stay beside you to first help ease your fears For I will be there always Some days I am so tired as I AM A NURSE
By: Judi Quann
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Puzzles & Comics
Enjoy this recipe for gingerbread submitted by Marie Dove! Have a recipe you'd like to submit? Send it to communications@ nwood.ns.ca
Lynn Eyland studied art in Edmonton and then went on to enjoy a successful artistic career. She was 17 years old when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Despite the difďŹ culties and limitations this disease has imposed on Lynn, her enjoyment and desire to share her art continues. Lynn lives in Northwood Manor, and we’re proud to display her art to our community.
Summer 2019 | Northwood | 17
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Volunteering at Northwood
Elaine McNamara: Living and Volunteering at Northwood If you spend time at either of our campuses, you know that volunteers are part of everything we do. But did you know that some of our volunteers also live at Northwood? Elaine McNamara started volunteering with us about six months after she moved into the Manor at the Halifax Campus. At first, she was looking for something
to keep her busy, but now it’s something she looks forward to every week. Elaine helps Donna Hyland with programming for the tenants on two Manor. “We do a lot of craft work around the holidays,” says Elaine. “We do stretch classes and we do teas. We just had an impromptu tea party the other day, we had tea and cookies and talked
Volunteer Job Board At Northwood, we couldn’t do what we do without our dedicated team of volunteers. Our volunteers provide comfort, entertainment, security and peace of mind. Are you interested in becoming part of our volunteer team? We have a number of positions available: • Friendly Visitor: Spend time with our residents on outings or just with social visits! Volunteers will be visiting residents within the Northwood Halifax Campus and accompanying certain residents outside for walks and short outings. This is a one on one volunteer role. • Physiotherapy Porter: Assist residents to and from physiotherapy appointments at the Halifax Campus. This job takes place on Tuesday afternoons. • Fitness Buddy: Assist residents to and from the fitness
centre at the Halifax Campus. Time slots available anytime Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. •C ommunity Recreation & Wellness Bingo: On Mondays and Saturdays at the Halifax Campus from 5:309:30 p.m. We need bingo callers, cashiers and folks to man the floor. •B ar Tender: Help us run the Harbourview Lounge bar at the Halifax Campus! Alternating Thursday evenings from 6-9:15 p.m. •W orship Companions: Attend church services with a resident who cannot attend independently, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. For these and other volunteer opportunities at Northwood, please contact our Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at 902-454-3353 or volunteers@nwood.ns.ca.
and just had fun.” Elaine volunteers two or three days a week. For her, the best part of volunteering is spending time with the tenants and having fun, but also the relationships that she has built. “I just love working with Donna,” says Elaine. “She says I’ve been such a help to her but I think she’s more of a help to me. I really do care about her and all the ladies as well.”
18 | Northwood | Summer 2019
Northwood Intouch
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Northwood Intouch Sponsors Outstanding Senior Award Northwood Intouch was an award sponsor at the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia’s Let’s Keep Talking event on May 9. Judi Quann was presented with the Outstanding Senior Award by Northwood President & CEO, Janet Simm. Judi has been a Northwood tenant for three years, she is a friend to many and brightens their lives with her positive attitude and beautiful paintings. She is resilient and always finds time to give others a helping hand. The night’s keynote
speaker, former NHL hockey player Theo Fleury, shared his story of his own struggle with mental illness and addiction. Here at Northwood, we know how important it is to speak up about mental health issues and we’re happy to have partnered with the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia on this initiative. Judi Quann receives the Outstanding Senior Award. (Photo by stoo metZ)
Summer 2019 | Northwood | 19
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Northwood Intouch
Who am I Speaking to When I Call Intouch? If you’ve contacted Northwood Intouch with questions or to set up the service, chances are you spoke with Karen Morash. She is the first point of contact for anyone needing our Intouch services. “I take all of the calls,” says Karen. “I have spoken to every single client we have.” Northwood Intouch offers a wide range of devices to help monitor you or your loved one’s security, safety and independence. From fall pendants to medication
dispensers, there are many different options. “There are a lot of options and often a lot of
$1,000 hiring incentive for CCAs* Visit northwoodcareers.itacit.com to view all of our current opportunities or call 902-454-3369 to find out more! *some conditions apply
confusion over which and often their loved ones. “A lot of people find comproducts might be fort in knowing they will be best suited for each speaking with the same perfamily,” says Karson,” says Karen. “Developen. “I help people ing that trust and rapport is through the process hugely important in these and listen to their moments because they tend needs to understand to be high-stress.” what products will Karen is often speakwork best.” ing directly with hospitals Typically, a serabout the options clients vice like Intouch is could go home with that day. recommended by a Northwood Intouch also physiotherapist or offers funding assistance. occupational therapist, but Karen helps Funding can be provided with getting the right through several different programs and Karen is the services for each person. person who facilitates that It’s important that she develops a speaking relation- funding based on income, ship with all of her clients need and scenario.
20 | Northwood | Summer 2019
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Northwood Intouch
Can you pass the Kleenex? Chances are that if someone asked you that question, they wouldn’t care if the brand was actually “Kleenex” or some other type of tissue. Some may be thicker or softer on your nose, but generally they are the same;
used once and thrown away. Like Kleenex, Sobeys bags and BandAid, Lifeline has become the generic name and umbrella term that most people use to refer to all medical alarms. Unfortunately, not all services are the
LIVING WITH DEMENTIA? We can help.
same. Northwood is the only provider that is Nova Scotia based, not-for-profit and installed by local volunteers across the province. When someone gets service from Northwood, the fees go back into programs and services that help seniors throughout the province through subsidies, adult day programs, transportation and other initiatives that are not funded by the government. It’s important when refer-
ring someone to Northwood that you refer to us by our name: Northwood Intouch. Otherwise, when they go online and search the generic name, they will find other services they think are us, but are not. More generic ways to refer to the service include medical alarms, PERS (Personal Emergency Response Systems) or Emergency Call Devices.
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