Commun ty Matters Lawrence Presbyterian Manor
March 2016
Resident finds satisfaction in volunteer work By Pete Anderson
I received a call in early 2000, a few days after retiring. “Pete, we think you would make a great volunteer here at Lawrence Memorial Hospital.” The call was from Ken Whitenight, longtime volunteer at LMH. I eagerly signed on to be an “escort.” You know, one of those people who push wheelchairs, run errands, and help people around the hospital. The “pay” was great: free lunch in the cafeteria the day you did your shift. I was hooked. Seven years later, I joined the front Information Desk, where you checked in people and sent people in the right direction—most of the time—and answered the phone. The hospital was in rebuilding mode, so things changed all the time, and just keeping up with the changes was challenging. Sooner or later everyone in Lawrence comes to LMH. Great place to see people, for sure. Over the years, there were indeed some interesting experiences. Early in my experience, there was a call from maternity saying they had a specimen for the lab. So, eager VOLUNTEER, continued on page 3
Folded with love One employee’s way to bring happiness to residents every day On any given day, you can walk into the assisted living dining room and find colorful, specially folded napkins waiting to be used by residents. These unique creations are provided by CynDi Browning, a dining services aide. CynDi has been with Lawrence Presbyterian Manor for almost four years, and she spends most of her time in the assisted living dining room. However, she brings 30 years of experience in floral and retail to her work here, which helps spark her creativity. “I never thought I would ever want to fold napkins,” CynDi said. Her position at LPM has allowed CynDi to express that creative side for our residents’ daily benefit. Residents are always excited to find out about FOLDED, continued on page 2
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her next project. CynDi searches for videos online at YouTube.com and reads books to find Lawrence Presbyterian Manor Lawrence Presbyterian Manor new ideas for her daily Lawrence Presbyterian Manor creations. The holidays ON seem to be the most ON exciting time for folded napkins.
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“That’s what I really love about it—their reaction and their enjoyment,” she said. “They are really the highlight of my day. If I can bring a little bit to them, it brings so much more to me. It’s very rewarding.”
Community Matters is published monthly for residents and friends of Lawrence Presbyterian Manor by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Learn more at PresbyterianManors.org. Christie Patrick, executive director Angela Fonseca, marketing director To submit or suggest articles, contact afonseca@pmma.org. Telephone: 785-841-4262 Fax: 785-841-0923 Address: 1429 Kasold Dr., Lawrence, KS 66049-3425 Our mission: We provide quality senior services guided by Christian values. LawrencePresbyterianManor.org
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Community Matters March 2016
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beaver that I was, I went to the maternity ward, was handed a flat pan in a bag, and headed for the lab. That’s funny—the “specimen” was warm. Arriving at the lab I inquired about the specimen and was told what it was. Those girls had set me up. Big laughs from everyone. Everyone knew Pete had been duped. Call at the front desk: “We have a lady in heavy labor coming to the main door.” Again, eager beaver grabbed a wheelchair and went to the door. OMG, this lady WAS in heavy labor. I whisked her to the elevator and a nurse stepped out. Saved by the bell! Another time, a couple came in in distress, and I knew they spoke no English. The little lady was groaning loudly. I got the message. We made it to maternity in the nick of time. Wednesday was my day at LMH, and lunch was special. I got to know all kinds of other volunteers and LMH staff, and it was a great time. Special friends were made, and we still see each other now and then. The nurse at my recent cataract surgery said, “Oh, I know you.You used to wheel people out of the recovery room.” One of the cafeteria ladies was at Dillons recently, and we had a visit.
Election night memories It’s 2016 and that means we’re officially into a presidential election year. Resident Audrey Mortensen shared with us her memory of an especially eventful election night for herself and her husband, Duane, and their ongoing political participation. By Audrey Mortensen Election Day, Nov. 6, 1956, Waterloo, Iowa. Our first baby was due that week, and I had voted for Ike early. Our doctor (a church friend) admitted me to the hospital that day so he could induce the baby the next day and head north to the IowaMinnesota football game that Saturday. Duane was the GOP county organizational chair, so he stayed busy into the wee hours with election returns. Little Mary was in a hurry, however, and Duane was called to the hospital in time for the quick labor and her arrival at 11:03 a.m.! We both were active in party politics for many years, although I did switch parties in the 1980s. But since I first began to vote in 1952, I have never ever missed voting in every single election, from school board to president. I see it as a sacred duty!
When you are nice to people, they are nice to you. I believe that. Helping those in need makes one feel good. Watching people progress after a stroke was so great. One lady used to come in a wheelchair van, and I would take her up to therapy. She got better over a two-year period of persistence, and one of the last times I saw her she didn’t even use a cane anymore. Wonderful. As my COPD progressed it became obvious that I would have to retire again. Wow. Eleven years at LMH had passed. I sure miss all the people and the wonderful experiences volunteering gave me! Lawrence Presbyterian Manor
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Community Matters March 2016
Everyone knows fitness is important How have you taken steps to be fit? What’s your regular fitness routine? If you’ve started a fitness routine late in life, what advice would you have for others? How do you think you benefit from regular exercise? If you’ve got a story to share about getting or staying fit, contact Marketing Director Angela Fonseca, and your story could be featured in an upcoming edition of Community Matters.