A Tribute

Article Submitted by Yvonne Myers, Health Systems Coordinator, Columbine Health Systems - www.ColumbineHealth.com

Recently my father passed away. He had a stroke on March 22, 2006. We lost him to another stroke three and a half months later.

I have been in the long term care profession for 23 years. I have helped many families and their loved ones travel through the long term care system as well as to help them pass from this earth. No matter how prepared you feel you are, when it is your own family member - you're never prepared.

Many years ago, my father had asked me in a firm and final voice that he not be placed in a nursing home. I jokingly replied, "Gee, Dad, maybe you should pick a different daughter." I then asked him, "Where would you like for me to place you when you require skilled nursing care?" He exclaimed, "Put me out with the trash!"

I responded by telling my Dad that I hoped that he never was so ill that he would need skilled nursing care. But if he did, I would be sure that he was placed in the best facility and that I would be with him through the journey. He looked away with out a response. The topic was never again discussed.

After being cared for in ICU for days, a chaplain asked my father what his plans were for his future? He stated, "Get to Yvonne's place." He knew that he needed skilled nursing care and rehabilitation in order to get well.

My father made the most of all of the therapies that were ordered. He never lost his sense of humor or zest for life. He made friends with other residents and watched out for them. He smiled and waved to all of the staff from his room and in the dining room. He attended music and entertainment activities, nearly all of the ice cream events offered, and enjoyed rides in the van around town and up the Poudre Canyon.
In the last days of his life, he told me, "This isn't home, but it's a good place." I know that my Dad is reading this article and is smiling down on me for not putting him out with the trash.