Elizabeth Meyer | Sep 25, 2015
At Walker Methodist, our mission is Life. And all the living that goes with it. Enhancing the lives of older adults through a culture of care, respect and service. This isn’t just a sign that hangs in our communities or words on our website. It is an active cornerstone of our business that we all uphold, honor, and live by each day. And the ways in which our mission is carried out day-in and day-out is nothing short of awe-inspiring. This includes this story about our resident Tracy, and all the living that goes with her life, and how we helped.
Tracy’s Story
Tracy is a resident at Health Center. This community offers more comprehensive, attentive care and includes an interdisciplinary care-giving model. Tracy works with a multi-skilled team comprised of nursing, social service, culinary, therapeutic recreation, rehabilitative therapy, and spiritual care. 11 years ago, Tracy was dropped from a transport lift at a different care facility outside Walker Methodist’s network of communities. Due to the injuries she sustained in this accident, Tracy suffered severe damage and has endured nearly 20 surgeries in an effort to repair the damage.
As a result of the accident, she was rendered partially paralyzed and relies on a wheelchair for mobility. “At age 45, I have been in a lot of nursing homes,” Tracy said. “I was told I’d never do anything independently again. Never walk. Never dress myself. Never even stand up.” After coming to Walker Methodist, Tracy met with her care team and her therapy regime began after she settled in to her new home.
“Look! I’m Vertical!”
“Walker Methodist is just different,” Tracy said. “I live in a really good place, the best place I have ever lived.” Tracy went on to explain some of the Walker Methodist differences. “The people. The staff never leaves me. The food … and my friends. I have a best friend here. At other places, you’re not encouraged to make or keep friends.” There’s our mission … Enhancing the lives …
“11 years ago, I was told I’d never walk. I never tried anywhere else I lived. When I came to Walker Methodist, just for the sake of it, we said we would try. When I first started, I was so proud of the fact that I was vertical. I would say, look! I’m vertical! I like vertical, I still do! Walker Methodist is more attentive to what you can do. What I heard 11 years ago was, what I’d never do. Now, here, what I hear is, what can you do?”
Walker Methodist: Hope is a Muscle
I am so proud of everyone, not just those involved with Tracy’s story, but with our entire Walker Methodist family. Tracy is just one of several residents who has experienced a miracle or two. Maybe not to the extreme, large-scope - like walking again - but miracles come in all shapes and sizes. Maybe it’s establishing new friendships. Being free of the burden of caring for a large house all alone. Perhaps it’s in trying new things, or connecting with memories again.
