To endure the emotional loss of a loved one is beyond words. But, the words I am writing to you are from the depths of my heart. I am writing you this letter to share with you what I truly feel regarding your staff.
The last few years of my husband’s life were better than I could ever imagine. He was at peace to call Oakdale his “home” and everyone who came in contact with Tom treated him with love, kindness, compassion and respect. This really touched my heart and will never be forgotten. But one individual stands out, who, took care of him every single day is why I’m writing you this letter. Derek Kibrige is truly one in a million. He was a “Special Gift” God sent to Tom and myself. He went above and beyond and Tom loved him deeply and he felt “safe” with him. He always made Tom laugh and most importantly he made him feel good about himself every day he was there. Do you know just how much that means to family? Derek not only did his job but made a difference in people’s lives he came in contact with. I wrote Derek and told him to “stand proud” as he does make a difference. Tom passed on June 21st and Derek calls me at least every few weeks to see how I am doing; how great is that! What a reflection on Oakdale.
I bonded with many residents in the past years I was there and plan to come back and visit and perhaps volunteer there. In closing my personal opinion is you have great judgement in hiring your staff and I am hoping you give Derek the recognition he deserves.
I would also want to express your entire staff were excellent from housekeeping, kitchen, nurses, doctors, “activities” and even the barber and Heidi the hairdresser. They too went out of their way to make my husband’s stay there a wonderful and happy one. Again, what a reflection on Oakdale.
I am hoping you share my letter with Nate as he should know as well. At this time I would like to extend to the Administrator, nursing, office staff, Social Service, Therapy and all the staff on Laurel, Ed, Diane, Jackie and the staff who took care of Tom a “sincere” thank you. I can’t say enough about Oakdale and will be telling people its truly the “BEST” place to go.
I hope your staff, especially Derek get the recognition they deserve as they do make a difference in people’s lives. I hope to see you soon and hope I can make a difference in someone’s life as well.
All of us in the family would like to thank you for the care you provided for our mother in the past year. Mom felt safe and comfortable in your supportive and friendly atmosphere. She loved you all and considered lucky to be with you. We feel fortunate that our mother spent her last year with such kind people. We are grateful for the peace you helped give Mom. A donation has been made to Abby’s House in your honor.
We would like to thank everyone for the loving care provided to our mother, FC, throughout the past four years. We deeply appreciate each and everyone of you and the wonderful work you do.
It was very comforting to witness the respect and dignity given repeatedly to all the residents at Oakdale. Also please know how grateful we are to all of you special people for the thoughtfulness and compassion given to us during our mother’s last several days. It helped ease our sadness.
On behalf of R.A., we would like to thank you for his excellent care over his last few weeks. You were superbly competent & professional – and you cared about him as an individual. Thank you!!!
Peter and I would like to thank each and everyone of you for the care and love given to my mom and Peter’s Aunt. You’re like an extended family opening your arms to everyone who lands at your door step.
I would like to acknowledge your staff for the care they provided for my mother. She was at Oakdale from mid-February until the end of May when she moved to assisted living.
At age 88, she was moved from her home in Paxton when we could no longer safely care for her. It was difficult for her at Oakdale for the first month or so. She could not understand why she was moved out of her home and put with strangers. She was angry and defiant and difficult. Your staff patiently worked with her until she settled into her new life. That my mother was able to make a good transition is a tribute to your staff and the work they did with her.
I would like to acknowledge Karin Brown for her work dealing with the long term care provider. She guided my family through a really tough time. I would also like to acknowledge Nurses Tanya and Erin, and all those whose names I do not know, who never gave up on my mother.
Your nursing home deserves its high rating. My family thanks you.
On behalf of the West Boylston Council on Aging and the Seniors of West Boylston, I would like to thank you and Oriol Health Care for the wonderful programs you provided for us. Starting with the Fitness Program, the Nutrition Program, the Senior Safety Program and finishing with the barbeque and Wii Bowling Tournament. All were outstanding programs to health celebrate National Senior Health Awareness month. I have received great feedback on all the programs. Thank you as well for the Wii Fitness package. We really appreciate all you have done.
On behalf of the West Boylston Council on Aging and the Senior Center, I would like to thank you for your gift of a DVD Player for our Lounge. This will allow us to have movie afternoons and watch old and new movies.
Thank you for your generous donation.
