Grace Care Center’s Staff & Medical Director, Dr. Johnson: COVID-19 Precautions
Photo by Will Sadler
Photo By Will Sadler
“Tickled me to death and made me feel special”, “It was so very sweet”, “Made me feel awesome”, “[Just] so nice”. These were some of the various words that were said by Grace Care Center residents about the outpouring of support that has been given by the Olney Community in the wake of this pandemic.
“The patients appreciate the cards and pen-pals from the House of Mercy. There is a rather somber mood due to being isolated to their rooms and having no outside visitors including their family,” said Dr. Jeremy Johnson.
Vickie Fields, a nursing home resident, said, “It’s nice that someone realizes what we are going through here! They really care about us.”
During this time, residents of the Grace Care Center have been asked to stay in their rooms. But that has not stopped Olney residents from making sure that their loved ones continue to know their worth and how much they are truly loved by their friends and families.
“Our residents have received many cards and words of encouragement from the community. From the churches gathering to pray with signs of love and support, to window visits with family, to Facetime visits, to cards and letters. They all are so very thankful,” said Susan Piercy, Grace Care Center Manager/Director.
“The residents that are able to read and enjoy the cards are extremely appreciative,” Dr. Johnson emphasized.
“Our family and friends have been very supportive of our requests and we appreciate everyone being patient during this time. Together we can overcome anything. Together is always better.”
On Wednesday, Apr. 8, a wave parade was held for Grace Care Residents with a large crowd in attendance with everyone using social distancing.
“The Wave Parade was organized by Jan Williams. We cannot express how overwhelmed we are with the support that was shown to our residents. Residents and staff were overcome with emotions. Lots of smiles were seen and tears of joy shed. These residents are a part of our family and we love each and every one of them. It has been so hard on them to not be able to see their families during this time. The parade was a very bright and shining time for them,” Piercy said.
Paula Pugh of the Grace Care Center also added that Southside Baptist Church has been instrumental in its support the past several weeks. The staff used Facetime with families for residents to be able to visit with their loved ones. The Grace Care Center asked that the Olney community continue to come out and support all residents.
“Grace Care Center is out front of responding to the pandemic. They are on full lock down and limit traffic through the nursing center. They have postponed ancillary visits including dental, podiatry, and hair care appointments. Administration, maintenance, food service, nurse and medical staff are all coordinating to follow CDC, DSHS, and county and governor ordinances relating to the pandemic. Grace Care Center is a good example of the extreme measures that businesses should take to help prevent the spread of the disease,” Dr. Johnson stated. He ended by saying that “There are no possible infections or patients under investigation.”