Helping hands

Dear editor:
In the past, I have written several letters to the editor commending the Rainycrest staff members on their excellent care-giving capabilities.
But besides the large number of employees who work here at Rainycrest, there are several groups of individuals that also contribute to our care.
These groups include Maria Sanders, Laura McCormick, and Sara Galusha; Rachelle Whalen, Megan Reid, and April Deveau; and the numerous other volunteers.
The first group of individuals, consisting of Maria Sanders, Laura McCormick, and Sara Galusha, are employed by the Canadian Mental Health Association.
These people are responsible for the implementation of the psycho-geriatric resource program in the Rainy River District under the watchful eye of Gerri Yerxa, the lead hand for the program.
This program provides support to the residents experiencing dementia, mental illness, or other complex needs.
The second group of individuals—Rachelle Whalen, Megan Reid, and April Deveau—are employed by Jeff Wright, the physiotherapist here at Rainycrest.
These three are employed as physiotherapist assistants, who assist Jeff in the implementation of treatment programs to improve or maintain residents’ abilities to function.
The physiotherapist assistants may assist residents with activities such as stretching, individual exercises, posture, and gait re-education. They also would lead in or participate in group exercises and/or activities.
They can monitor residents during treatments, individual activities, and exercise classes, and report resident performance.
The last group of individuals that I believe deserve to be recognized are the numerous volunteers who come to Rainycrest and give their own time to make our lives better.
Some of these volunteers include people like Betty Grynol, Margrit Schaum, Leanne Crompton, Kathy Mueller, and Rita Moorhouse. They all bring residents to and from the Roman Catholic mass every Thursday morning.
Another group of regular volunteers are from the band “Musician’s Blend,” consisting of Jack Fiset, Bob Wepruk, Glen Hart, Don Hughes,Wayne Flatt, Jackie Grynol, and Josie and Sam Matichiuk.
These individuals give up every second Wednesday night to play for us at our dances.
Now, I must apologize to all of the other volunteers who I have failed to mention in this letter.
In conclusion, I just would like to reiterate how thankful we residents are towards these groups of individuals. Thank you!
(Signed),
David Fontana
Fort Frances, Ont.