The “LTC Strong” bi-weekly blog series highlights the amazing work of LTC homes during COVID-19. You are heroes and we want to help spread your shining moments in dark times.
Though it goes without saying, we’re going to say it anyway: Team members in long-term care are our heroes in the fight against COVID-19. We are inspired team members going above and beyond in supporting residents and bringing smiles to their faces. You are protecting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities and we’re so grateful. Folks across Ontario have been showing their gratitude to your amazing work.
If you work at or pass by a Schlegel Village, you may have noticed the large “Heroes Work Here” signs in front of their buildings. The Schlegel support team wants not only their team members, but their communities know how grateful they are for the amazing work being done.
The team at The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association has created a video to thank their Health Care Heroes and highlight the difficult work they do. You can watch the video on their Facebook Page.
Families of residents in long-term care want to share their appreciation too. They are worried about their loved ones and are showing their appreciation however they can. Team members at Henley Place in London were recently greeted by a “Love Blanket” tied to their fence by a grateful family. The message on it reads: “Thank you for taking good care of our (grand)parents! We <3 U”
But maybe the most grateful folks right now are residents. We have seen so many moving tributes highlighting the gratitude of those receiving care. Residents have found creative ways to show their appreciation. With the help of recreation team members, residents at Perley Rideau Veterans Centre in Ottawa have created a beautiful “Garden of Gratitude” using art materials. The garden has several notes to essential workers, thanking them for their work during the COVID-19 crisis. Another type of garden sprung up at a Tri-county Mennonite Home: A rock garden has been growing with messages of thanks and encouragement from residents and community members painted on rocks.
Finally, check out this article from the CBC talking about the impacts of COVID-19 on long-term care. A quote from a resident in the article perfectly sums up what all of us in the sector are thinking: “You know, they say in a crisis you find out who your friends are, well, I have found out who my heroes are.”
‘Heroes Work Here’ signs pop up at each of the Schlegel Villages across Ontario.
Got photos with them? Share and tag us in them.#SchlegelStrong pic.twitter.com/N07uW5HGQ0
— Schlegel Villages (@SchlegelVillage) April 24, 2020
#HenleyPlace LTC Home found this “love blanket” tied to their fence this morning. To whomever left this act of kindness, you have touched out staff more than you know. Ontario’s #LTC is strong and we are here for you! #Inthistogether @DLDunc416 @DrFullertonMPP @fordnation pic.twitter.com/7vcXfTapbl
— primacare Living Solutions (@primacareliving) March 24, 2020
Looking for additional information on supporting residents or team members? Visit our COVID-19 resources page: clri-ltc.ca/covid19