May/June 2016 Life Magazine

Northwood’s Magazine
I May / June 2016
Life
Our focus
is on people;
not profits
Northwood Life
May / June 2016
Northwood Flexicare
is hiring ‘Caring &
Compassionate’ people.
Northwood’s Staffing Agency, Flexicare, is currently recruiting caring and
compassionate people who are interested in a fulfilling career at Northwood.
Northwood Client Support Workers (CSWs):
• Have worked/volunteered in a
continuing care role in either the
community or long-term care facility;
• Have provided care for a loved one,
supporting their overall health, in the
home; or
• Have completed courses in the
continuing care field, but do not have
a Provincial CCA certification.
Northwood CSWs will assist with client/resident outings, provide companion
support, and lend experience in various Northwood programs such as Adult
Day, Retirement Living, Recreation Therapy, Home Support and In Care Living. Flexicare supports employees interested in building a career path through
experience and self-paced learning that will enable them to achieve their
provincial CCA Certification. All while earning a competitive wage and doing
important work in the community.
If you or someone you know is interested, has the skills and compassion
needed to care for our valued clients and help them to LIVE MORE with
Northwood, please refer them to HR at [email protected] for more information.
Tara Dunn
Editor
[email protected]
Tel: 902-454-3342
www.nwood.ns.ca
[email protected]
Northwood is a not-for-profit,
community based organization.
Northwoodcare Halifax
2615 Northwood Terrace
Halifax, NS B3K 3S5
Tel: 902-454-8311
Fax: 902-455- 6408
On the
cover:
Northwood
Homecare
client
Valerie
Buchanan
enjoys a visit
from Home
Support
Worker,
Joanna
Hazeldine.
We’re Building Community.
Northwood’s Life magazine is
published eight times per year
by Northwood’s Communications
Office. Life magazine is distributed to
the staff, residents, families, clients,
tenants, volunteers, and visitors
of Northwood. If you have story
ideas, photos or suggestions for the
September issue, please call Tara
at 902-454-3342 or send them to
[email protected] by July 22.
Northwood Homecare
Suite 1 South
130 Eileen Stubbs Avenue
Dartmouth, NS B3B 2C4
Tel: 902-425-2273
Fax: 902-421-6313
Get Connected
Get Connected provides a regular social call from a
Northwood volunteer to an older adult living alone. Get
Connected offers...
• A free weekly connection with a trained volunteer
• A friendly call from someone who knows your name
• Pleasant conversation on topics of mutual interest
For more information, call: 902-421-6387
Email: [email protected]
Northwoodcare Bedford
123 Gary Martin Drive
Bedford, NS B4B 0G7
Tel: 902-407-8500
Fax: 902-407-8501
Northwood - live more
For Advertising Opportunities
call 902-454-3377
1
Northwood Life
“We can always do better”
May / June 2016
Sharing a Moment with
Janet Simm, CEO
This is a value that Northwood takes
very seriously. We have initiatives
underway across the organization
that will allow us to better serve our
customers.
The work that has been undertaken
in our Home Support program in
the last several years is a perfect
example of that.
Our funder, the Department of
Health and Wellness, has very high
expectations of us. We have faced
the challenge of government’s
fiscal restraint head on. While we
have made tremendous progress
with respect to cost effectiveness,
our work continues. Government
has set targets around wait times
for access to service – our team
has worked very hard in this area.
The wait times for service have
been dramatically reduced and in
most cases, there is no delay in
getting service started within days
of the referral.
We have accomplished this work
without compromising our values.
We continue to recruit and invest
in our staff to ensure they are well
prepared to respond to our clients’
needs. We have supervisors to
support front line staff, clients
and families. We have invested in
tools and technologies to support
communication and efficiency of
work. And we continue to support
fair and equitable remuneration
and benefits for staff.
Most importantly, however, are our
efforts to respond to the feedback
we receive from our Homecare
clients and their families.
We have received feedback that
our Home Support Workers are
amazing and that they go above
and beyond to support individuals
and their families.
However, we also hear that while
we are responsive and skilled at
what we do, we often have too many
workers entering clients’ homes.
The number of different staff going
into a home is impacted by many
factors. They include our ability to
retain our valued staff, our ability to
keep people at work (i.e. reducing
injuries and minimizing
time away), and using our
software tools and data
to effectively manage
staff schedules. We are
making a commitment
to continue improving in
these areas.
We offer many programs and
services that support individuals to
remain in their home. Our newest
service supports care needs
outside of the formal government
home care program by providing
individuals to run errands and
volunteers who are making social
connections. Our Intouch program
also offers electronic devices to
help individuals live safely in their
own home.
We believe we offer
the best Home Support
Service in HRM and
beyond. We are also
committed to continue
looking for ways to
improve. In the months
to come, you will see
improvements in communication
and
increased
education
opportunities for individuals and
family caregivers.
2
Northwood Life
To: 5 Centre
From: Ashley Penton
May / June 2016
To: Emma Biglow
From: Dorinda MacIsaac
To: Trina Morris
From: Stephanie McDougall
A big thank you to Emma for her enthusiasm and ideas as
we implement CIP initiatives here at Ivany. Empowering
our staff to identify needs and giving an opportunity to
‘fix’ issues has been developing. Thanks Emma for your
efforts.
Trina went above and beyond by taking a few copies of
the ‘Positive Aging’ directory for the clients she had that
afternoon. Trina showed so much initiative and loving
care with this gesture. She showed that even when
she’s not on shift, she’s thinking about and caring for her
clients and their best interests.
To: Waylon Boutilier
From: Joy Knechtel
On Thursday, March 24 , 5 Centre hosted a very special
Easter bingo for their residents! I personally wanted
to say thank you for the amazing afternoon that we all
worked together to put on. I would like to say a very
special thank you to Sharon for preparing all of the
prizes that the residents loved so much! I can’t express
how great it was to see so many residents enjoying the
afternoon and all of the staff enjoying themselves too!
th
To: Kathleen Caldwell
From: Joy Knechtel
Bravo Kathleen! You have gone above and beyond
with a resident that needed some added comfort after
receiving some bad news. Thank you.
To: Mary Delorey
From: Wendy Cameron
I would like to extend a ‘heartfelt’ thank you to Mary for
the kindness and dedication she shows to the residents
on 2 Centre. She has brought in craft supplies and
homemade sweets for the residents and because of this,
puts big smiles on their faces. Her caring ways provide
much happiness to the residents on 2 Centre. Thank you
Mary for helping us make a difference!
To: Crystal Diamond
From: Joy Knechtel
Crystal, today while working, you went above and
beyond! At breakfast offering the residents the style
of egg of choice: scrambled, fried, boiled or poached.
Then through the day, you swept and mopped which is
a normal duty but then getting the auto scrubber and
using it to do the dining and living room areas. Awesome!
Thank you.
Northwood Life
Bravo Waylon for going above and beyond interacting
with the residents and making cinnamon rolls with them!
They really enjoyed it.
To: Jennifer Fleiger
From: Sheila Maguire & Kerri Piper
Jennifer graciously agreed to give us the use of the
training room at Ivany Place for a month to conduct
our Kronos pilot. She had to move and juggle many
education sessions to accommodate us and she did
so with a big smile. Her support was invaluable to our
process – Jennifer YOU ROCK!
To: Darlene MacDonald
From: Sheila Maguire & Kerri Piper
Darlene has been a key support person in recent months
for Staffing and the Kronos implementation project and
has shown the ability to handle whatever is thrown at her.
Consistently going above and beyond – asking ‘how’
instead of ‘why’ when asked to take on any additional
job and always seeing things through to the end. Thank
you Darlene!
To: Holly Shaw
From: Joy Knechtel
Holly found out a resident didn’t get a shower on
another floor she had worked on the previous day. She
took it upon herself to speak with the LPN and her LPN
to coordinate the person to have a shower. Now that is
resident focused care. We can all learn from the great
attitude Holly demonstrated. Bravo Holly!
3
May / June 2016
Congratulations!
Bill Mont, Tenant
Congratulations to Northwood Towers Tenant Bill Mont on
receiving a 2016 HRM Volunteer Award. Bill has given his
time and dedication to more than 30 clubs, societies and
organizations over the years.
To: Jacqueline Kane-Emerson
From: Harriel McDonnell’s daughter
In a conversation with the client’s daughter, she went on
to say how beyond happy she was to see you. She said
you were just like a light to her and she was sure you
were sent by God. She was so happy that you took the
time to make her a pancake; the first full meal her mom
had eaten in ages.
To: Sabrina Chranofski
From: Valerie D
Client’s family sent a compliment about how you ‘stand
out’ beyond others. You are recognized as being truly
amazing to her. Client’s eyes light up when she sees you
and it makes her a happier person. Family want to pass
along how you have made a difference in the life of her
mother.
Northwood
HR Advisor, Angela Reid-Jury accepts the 2016 Employer
of the Year award from Eastern College, in recognition of
the great support Northwood has provided to both their
students and graduates.
To: Dianne French, HSW & Mentor
From: Jennifer Doucette, CCA Student
My experience was more than I expected as Dianne
made my time in Homecare so much more rewarding.
I have learned so much from her and I am honestly and
truly grateful I had her as my mentor. I look forward to
completing school so I can take this journey as a CCA
and help the people who need care.
To: Pam Kennedy
From: Edith Bailey
Mrs. Bailey called the office to say that the last time you
had been in she had not been feeling well. You came in
and knew exactly what to say and do to make her feel
better and by the time you left, she was feeling so much
better.
Jim Francis, NWBC
Congratulations to NWBC
Radio broadcaster, Jim
Francis on receiving a 2016
HRM Volunteer Award.
Jim volunteers his time as
president and program
director
at
Northwood
Broadcasting (NWBC) while
also producing a two-hour
weekly show.
Trudie Helmke,
Halifax Resident
Congratulations to Halifax
resident, Trudie Helmke on
receiving the ‘Outstanding
Senior Award’ at the Mental
Health Foundation of Nova
Scotia’s Let’s Keep Talking
with Margaret Trudeau
event.
4
Northwood Life
May / June 2016
Northwood’s Centenarian Honour Roll
Marjorie Gray
Hazel Robinson Edgar Graham
Helen Streb
Sadie Graham
Kay Smith
Pearl LeFresne
Dorothy Whiteway
Eleanor Graham
Yvonne Comeau
Margaret Martell
Mabel Sparks
Georgina O’Brien
Edith Corkum
Edith Thibodeau
Colin Livingstone
Natalie Corkum
Vera Lynch
Frances Blynn
Horotio Sargeant
Mary Lake
Mary Lowery
Josephine Salah
Irene MacDonald
Phyllis Creaser
Clyde Pynn
Nora Swansburg
Mary Jane Jamieson
Albert Isnor
Edna Hatfield
Gwen Constantineau
Sadie Kennedy
Jean MacCallum
Thelma Kiely
Bill Johnson Joan Everton Minnie Dawson
Helen Asseff
Ethel Reid
Ruth Young
Donald Cameron
Eldon Poole
Hallie Conway
104 104
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102
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102
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101
101
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100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100 in June
100 in July
100 in July
100 in September
100 in September
100 in September
100 in September
100 in September
100 in September
100 in September
100 in October
100 in October
100 in October
100 in December
100 in December
99
Intouch & Homecare Client
Resident, Ivany Place
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Homecare Client
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Homecare Client
Homecare Client
Intouch Client
Homecare Client
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Resident, Northwood at the Harbour
Intouch Client
Homecare Client
Resident, Northwood at the Harbour
Homecare Client
Intouch & Homecare Client
Intouch Client
Homecare Client
Intouch Client
Resident, Ivany Place
Resident, Northwood at the Harbour
Intouch Client
Resident, Northwood at the Harbour
Intouch Client
Intouch Client
Intouch & Homecare Client
Resident, Ivany Place
Resident, Ivany Place
Intouch Client
Homecare Client
Intouch Client
Resident, Northwood at the Harbour
Intouch Client
Intouch & Homecare Client
Intouch Client
5
Northwood Life
May / June 2016
Hazel Robinson
Resident, Periwinkle Cove, Northwood’s Ivany Place
Hazel Robinson is a sweet lady
with a bright smile and a heart of
gold.
Born on February 25, 1912, Hazel
was raised just outside Bridgewater,
Nova Scotia. When she was only 15
years old, her mother passed away,
leaving her and her brother Roy
orphaned.
In her late teens, Hazel met and fell
in love with a man named Ernest
Robinson. “I lived with my husband
before marriage,” she says. “I felt
bad about it back then, but I don’t
mind saying it now.” They were later
married and started a family. Hazel
and Ernest raised seven children;
three of her sons and two of her
daughters are still living.
When her children were small, Hazel
recalls walking five miles to church
pretty well every Sunday. Although
she says, the priest would always
drive them home. She remembers
spending a lot of time in summer
picking berries with her children and
anything else she could preserve
for the winter. “I also picked for
other people to make a little extra
money.” Hazel was also known for
her cooking skills. “The children still
talk about some of the things I used
to make.”
After her children were grown,
Hazel worked as a seamstress for
Isabel MacAuley at Tartan House.
It was a job she liked and found
very interesting. “I’ve always been
naturally good at sewing, crocheting
and knitting,” says Hazel. “When I
was eight or nine years old, I would
sew doll clothing by hand. I think I
was born already knowing how to
sew.” When her children were young,
Hazel also made much of their
clothing from whatever materials she
could get her hands on.
Before coming to Ivany in February
2016, Hazel spent 28 years in an
apartment in Dartmouth. She was
able to maintain her independence
until age 104 thanks partially
to Northwood Homecare and
Northwood Intouch. And although
her vision is almost gone, Hazel still
prides herself on being independent.
From time to time however, she gets
frustrated when trying to do things.
“But then I think to myself, no wonder
I can’t do that, I’m 104!”
Hazel has been active her whole
life and despite having both knees
broken when she was hit by a car
over 40 years ago, she is still able to
walk with the help of a walker. She
has a dedicated family that includes
nine grandchildren, 21 greatgrandchildren and one great-greatgrandchild.
Hazel has had both joyful times and
times of adversity, but looks back on
her life with a smile. “There’s very
little I’d change if I could live my life
over again.”
6
Northwood Life
March / April 2016
Hallie Conway
Hallie has done a fair bit of travelling
over the years. She and Robert
visited the Dominican, Mexico and
Florida, where they used to drive
their motor home. Hallie’s favourite
vacation was when she and Robert
went to England after he retired.
They took the Eurail and traveled all
over Europe. They spent one week
in Paris but missed out on visiting the
Eiffel Tower as it was not opened at
the time. By the end of their trip they
had travelled as far as Austria.
Hallie moved into the Berkley in
2003 and has made many friends
there. Her best friends are Katherine
MacKay, Wendy and Janice Purchase,
Dotty Davies and Carol Channing
who she likes to play cards and bingo
with. Some of Hallie’s other hobbies
include playing cards, colouring in
her adult colouring books, exercising
and dancing. “I love to dance,” says
Hallie. “I could dance the night
away!” In addition to her hobbies,
Hallie likes to receive phone calls
from her 10 grandchildren and 14
great-grandchildren. Her youngest
great-grandchild Leila, was born
in Calgary earlier this year. Hallie’s
favourite foods are lemon pie and
her daughter’s lasagne.
Hallie’s family and some of her
friends she hadn’t seen in a while all
gathered to celebrate her birthday
in February. As Hallie continues to
live into her hundreds, she will stay
active and keep her positive attitude.
Frances Blynn was born on
September 12, 1915 in Paradise,
Nova Scotia; a small community
located in the Annapolis Valley. Her
mother was a homemaker and her
father, a farmer. Frances jokes that
she got her determination from her
mother and her sense of humour
from her father.
Written by Maggie Day
While living in Merigomish, Hallie
met Robert Louis Conway, from
Stellarton, who was vacationing at a
cottage there with his friend. Robert
and Hallie hit it off straight away
and were seeing each other for 11
years before they got married. Upon
When describing her hometown of getting married in 1942, Hallie and
Merigomish, Pictou County, Harriet Robert moved to Ottawa for three
says, “It was a very quiet little town. years. Robert, an engineer, was then
We had to learn to make our own fun.” sent overseas to help with the war
One of Hallie’s favourite childhood effort, at which time Hallie moved
memories was when she and all her back to her hometown. When Robert
friends piled into a truck and drove returned from Europe, he and Hallie
to Westville to play baseball. Hallie settled on Vernon Street in Halifax
where they raised their four kids; two
boys and two girls.
Resident, Hickory Shore, Northwood halifax
Written by Maggie Day
Born February 19, 1917, Harriet
“Hallie” Conway grew up as the
oldest child in her family of one sister
and two brothers. Hallie’s mother
stayed at home to look after her and
her siblings, while her father was a
musician who taught piano lessons.
Hallie says that although her father
had tried to teach her to play piano
as well, she much preferred playing
baseball and gave up learning.
also remembers when Reverend
Campbell had tennis courts put in
on his land and she used to go play
tennis with her friends there. Some
of Hallie’s other hobbies growing up
included playing cards and going
to community dances. Hallie also
took a business course and worked
for Johnson and MacDonald for a
number of years.
May / June 2016
Frances Blynn
Client, Northwood Intouch
“A pessimist has no starter, an
optimist has no brakes.” These
are Hallie Conway’s guiding words
as she continues into her hundredth
year.
7
Northwood Life
When Frances was 20 years old,
she graduated from the Provincial
Normal College (later known as
the Nova Scotia Teacher’s College)
and began teaching at a oneroom schoolhouse in Spa Springs.
From 1935-1977, Frances taught
throughout Annapolis, Cumberland,
Digby and Kings Counties. One fond
memory she has is returning to the
College for her 50th reunion, while
her daughter was attending classes
there. Her daughter Cheryl, who
is now a guidance counsellor, said
that her mother was a great role
model for her professional career
and whenever she faced a tough
situation she would think to herself,
“what would mom do?”
Frances first met her husband Carl
Blynn at a dance in West Dalhousie.
They had an immediate connection
and were married in 1939. Carl was
a Dominion Railway worker but
when WWII broke out, he joined the
Canadian Air Force. When the war
ended, he came back to Paradise
and continued his job at the railway.
Together, Carl and Frances had
three children; two girls and a boy.
The family moved from Paradise,
to Weymouth, and then to Kingston
for Carl’s job, with Frances teaching
in all three locations. In 1978, they
retired back to Paradise. Frances
now has four grandchildren, eight
great-grandchildren and one greatgreat-grandchild.
One of Frances’ favourite pastimes
has been volunteering. While living
in the Annapolis Valley, Frances was
a member of the Women’s Institute,
the Baptist Women’s Society, the
United Church Women, the Cancer
Society, the Arthritis Society and later,
the Paradise Quilter’s. On occasion,
she would volunteer her children as
well to help out with various events
happening around the village. Local
writers David and Paulette Whitman,
who have written historical books
about Paradise and the surrounding
areas, have used Frances as a
resource to help verify facts and
people from the county. Aside
from helping out in the community,
Frances loves the water and enjoyed
taking her family to Fundy Shore and
Summerville Beach.
Frances now resides in Northwood
Halifax and has embraced her new
surroundings. Her son and daughter
visit weekly and her nephews and
nieces come to visit whenever
they’re in town. Frances’ favourite
things about Northwood are Newfie
Night, going to church and when she
gets to meet pets and babies. She
enjoys her weekly trips to visit Cathy
at the Silver Threads Beauty Salon.
She feels at home here and even
celebrated her 100th birthday in the
Penthouse with friends and family
from all over Canada. When asked
what has kept her going, Frances
replied, “I always try to see the good
in people and look on the bright
side of life. If you assume people are
good, then your whole outlook on
life is better.”
Northwood Life
8
May / June 2016
Northwood Life
Bill Johnson
Resident, Deaside Cove, Northwood’s Ivany Place
sisters and two brothers have all
passed away. After his father died
at a young age, Bill helped support
the family by working for the BritishCanadian Food Association. He was
employed at an apple orchard in
the Annapolis Valley and can recall
doing everything from planting and
pruning trees to harvesting the
apples.
Born on September 13, 1916, Bill is
the oldest of six children; his three
From that grew an enduring love
of the countryside. She enjoyed
nothing more than hiking across
the fields near her home. Later,
after she’d married Ken Everton
and they’d had their only child,
Neil, one of the first family holidays
out of England was a hitch-hiking
expedition around southern Ireland.
Even at 85, after moving to Nova
Scotia, Joan would regularly be seen
strolling along lanes and through
parks near her apartment. a wonderful gardener and always
had the most organized vegetable
garden around.
A wartime romance almost brought
Joan Everton to Canada in the 1940s.
But the romance with a Canadian
soldier ended, and so did her dreams
of joining the exodus of British war
brides crossing the Atlantic.
Bill and Dell have been living at Ivany
Place since March 2013, and are
not often seen apart. To celebrate
his 100th birthday in September, Bill
plans to enjoy a lobster dinner with
his family!
It was another romance that finally
got her to Canada, half a century
later. When Joan’s son Neil fell in love
with a Canadian and emigrated from
England to Canada, Joan decided it
was time to follow him.
Always an active person, Bill walked
each day to work from his Halifax
home. Even when he purchased
a car in later years, he continued
to walk everywhere. Bill also did
the 5BX plan (an exercise program
developed for the Royal Canadian
Air Force) daily to stay in shape.
Another passion of Bill’s was fixing
things. Known to his family and
friends as Mr. Fix It, Bill ran a watch
and jewelry repair business from his
home and was also the person his
grandchildren would come to if a toy
needed fixing. He loved to go fishing,
hunting and camping, and tending
to his garden. His family says he is
In 2002, at the age of 85, she sold
the home she’d lived in for more
than 50 years and moved to Nova
Scotia. She lived in apartments in
Halifax until 2010, when she moved
into the Seaside Cove community at
Ivany Place.
Written by Neil Everton
Bill Johnson is a bright man with
a delightful sense of humour. He has
a very close relationship with his
family, and has spent his life being a
devoted husband and father.
May / June 2016
Joan Everton
Resident, Fidler’s Cove, Ivany Place
In 1936, Bill was introduced to a lady
named Dell; a friend of one of his
cousins. They fell in love and were
married on September 20, 1937
(nearly 79 years ago). Bill and Dell
lived in Kentville for a short while,
but moved to Halifax so Bill could
find steady work. For the next 39
years, he worked as a charge hand
in the machine shop at the Halifax
Dockyards (NAD) in Dartmouth. They
also raised their three children (Billy,
Carol and Sandy) in Halifax.
9
Joan was born in 1916 to George
and Lois Freeman, in a village in
Leicestershire, England. One of her
joys growing up was spending time
with her grandfather, a giant of a man
with a long beard who worked on a
farm just outside the village.
of three children, she shouldered
the responsibilities of helping her
mother keep the family together
after the early death of her father.
Her brother and sister were the
extroverts of the family. But Joan’s
quiet demeanour hides a lively sense
of humour. And, as her new family at
Seaside Cove has discovered, she
has an infectious giggle.
Joan’s other continuing passion
is for her grandchildren, David
and Serena, and for her greatgrandchildren Dan and Holly, all of
whom live in England. Part of Joan’s
centenary celebrations is a visit from
David, his wife Philippa, and four She’ll get a big laugh from receiving
year-old Dan and two year-old Holly. the traditional centenarian’s telegram
from the Queen.
Joan has always been very
reserved. Early in life, as the eldest
Northwood Life
10
May / June 2016
Albert Isnor
In 1935, Al’s friend “Ducky” Drake
set him up on a blind date with a
woman named Pauline. Pauline
grew up on Young Street in the
North End of Halifax. They met in the
Public Gardens. “I met my darling in
the Public Gardens,” says Al, “We
hit it right off and had a wonderful
life together.” Al and Pauline were
married in 1938 and together have
one daughter named Janet. Al and
Pauline were married for 68 years.
Throughout his adult life, Al spent 40
years working for Nova Scotia Light
and Power. He started out working
as a meter reader, but eventually
managed the Nova Scotia Power
Appliance Store. He met all of his
coworkers when they came to the
store to buy appliances. When he
retired, Al received a call from John
Colwell of the Colwell Brothers,
who wanted him to come manage
his retail store. After his wife and
daughter convinced him to try it out
for a couple of years, Al went to work
and ended up staying for 12 years.
During his time as a manager, Al was
known for always wearing a suit and
tie.
Some of Al’s favourite hobbies
growing up were Boy Scouts,
playing crib, reading, collecting
electric train sets, carpentry and
upholstering. Al was a member
of the Boy Scouts throughout his
childhood and became a Scout
Leader when he was a teenager. He
remembers going camping, hiking
and visiting Miller Lake during those
years. Another one of Al’s passions
was playing crib. In 2013, he won a
cribbage championship. Throughout
his life, Al also liked to collect electric
trains, and train sets. His nephew
Bob says, “Uncle Al used to have the
whole basement set up with trains,
tunnels and tracks.” In addition to
collecting trains, Al loved to read and
had a new novel on the go about
every two weeks. Lee Child is his
favourite author.
Al is now a Northwood resident
and he says it’s a very nice place
to be. Al says the staff are always
friendly to him and he particularly
enjoys playing bingo. Some of his
most frequent visitors at Northwood
are his daughter Janet, his nephew
Bob, Marylou, and niece Marie
and her husband Dale. Al is also
looking forward to his 100th birthday
party where his grandchildren
Kristann and Michelle, and his greatgrandchildren Macy, Kendra, Lauren,
Colin and Ainsley will all come down
from Ottawa to celebrate with him.
aunt. She had to leave school at an
early age to take care of the house.
By age 17, she was working for Ben’s
Bakery. She married the man of her
dreams, John in 1934, and left her
job to raise a family.
“They had a going away party for me
when I left. They even provided the
cake for our wedding,” says Sadie.
In 1961, tragedy struck when her
husband, John was in a car accident.
He survived but was paralyzed for
life. Sadie went back to work and
found a job with Jacobson’s, a ladies
wear store in Halifax. She raised eight
children and cared for her husband
while working to support them all. In
1961, Sadie’s husband passed away
Sitting in her apartment in
Dartmouth, Sadie Graham looks
back at the life filled with both fond
memories and hard times. Born in
Halifax in 1912, Sadie’s first memory
is of the Halifax explosion when she
was five years old. Her dad worked
at the waterfront and came rushing
home to take Sadie and her brother
to safety. Luckily no one was hurt.
Written by John Verlinden
Al‘s favourite vacations were his bus
tours to New Orleans and Tennessee.
He also remembers taking the train
to Vancouver for a vacation once.
Al loved to travel and spent many
summers at Evangeline Beach in the
Annapolis Valley with his family.
Client, Northwood Homecare
Written by Maggie Day
Al’s father worked as a traveller for
John Hutton Candy and Tobacco,
and Al remembers everyone
knowing him. “My mother used to
get frustrated by everyone stopping
to talk to my father,” Al explains,
“They couldn’t go out anywhere
without someone recognizing him
and saying hi.”
May / June 2016
Sadie Graham
Resident, Chestnut Lake, northwood halifax
Albert “Al” Isnor was born July
10, 1916 in Bedford, Nova Scotia,
to a family of three children. He had
two sisters, Dorothy and Audrey,
whom he would tease when he was
younger. The family lived on various
parts of Almon Street throughout his
childhood and also on Hunter Street
for a short time. Al, along with his
family, survived the Halifax Explosion
of 1917. Al remains one of the few
remaining survivors. During his
youth, Al attended Bloomfield School
and Chebucto Road School where
he was a particularly good student.
His favourite was math; a subject
he excelled at his whole life. His
daughter Janet says that whenever
anyone had math homework or a
math problem, they would go to him
for help.
11
Northwood Life
Those early years were a struggle.
Sadie’s mom died when she was
young. It was not easy for her
father. They made frequent trips to
Cheticamp to be cared for by an
and she lost a daughter. It was a
tough year.
“It’s hard,” she says. “But you go on
and do what you have to do.” Her
son, Terry says that she always made
things seem easy.
Sadie loves life. She enjoys playing
crib and still likes to dance at
special occasions. Customers from
Jacobson’s will often recognize
her when they pass by and one
even visits on a regular basis. Her
children; Jack, Don, Bill, Marie,
Terry, Caroline (Tom and Karen have
passed away), her 21 grandchildren,
21 great grandchildren and several
great, great grandchildren, are the
love of her life.
Northwood Life
12
May / June 2016
Northwood Life
13
May / June 2016
The Diversity
Committee
Needs You
Seeds of Success: A True Success Story
Seeds of Success is Northwood’s
mental health support program
offered to residents and tenants at
Northwood Halifax. The program
offers a welcoming space, meaningful
activities that promote mental health
and wellness, and group treatment
programs. It’s staffed four days a
week by occupational therapist,
Lauren Anthony and recreation
programmer, Joy Pennick.
Participants are referred to the
program by members of the care
team or by self referral. Prior
to entering the program, each
participant completes an assessment
to identify their needs and establish
personal goals. The program
consists of two main components:
therapeutic gardening and creative
expression. In January 2016, a
partnership was formed with Seniors
Mental Health to implement a group
treatment program called ‘Positive
Steps: Moving through Depression.’
In May 2016, another group program
entitled ‘My Northwood: Finding My
Place’ was added with support from
recreation therapy and social work.
Since July 2015, 52 residents and
tenants have been referred to Seeds
of Success with a current group of
25 participants. The program has
not only had a positive impact on
participants, but has also increased
the understanding and awareness of
mental health within the Northwood
community as a whole.
Seeds of Success has been made
possible through a generous
donation from Marjorie Lindsay, as
well as grant funding from the Mental
Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
for program equipment and supplies.
Seeds of Success
Programs
Therapeutic Gardening
Participants plant both vegetables
and flowers from seed, transplant
seedlings and provide ongoing
plant care. Planting is done in both
the greenhouse and Harbourview
deck.
Creative Expression
This program uses art, writing and
music as an outlet to enhance self
esteem, emotional regulation and
confidence.
Positive Steps: Moving through
depression
A 10-week program for those who
would like to understand what
depression is and how it affects
them. A variety of topics are
covered and each session builds
on the previous one.
My Northwood: Finding my place
Weekly one-hour group sessions
for new residents. Each session
is discussion-based, guided by a
monthly theme with weekly subthemes.
Northwood’s Alumni
Association Helps
Retirees Stay in Touch
~ Sandra Bauld, Northwood Retiree
A familiar comment voiced by retirees
is, “I miss the people I worked with!”
Of course that’s not a surprise given
we spend a great portion of our
productive years in the workplace,
and meaningful relationships are such
a positive aspect of that time.
Northwood is an organization that
reaches far beyond the walls of in care
living and the community programs/
services offered. That’s why an Alumni
Association committed to responding
to the needs of retirees was formed.
While it does allow a chance for
people to get together in a relaxed
and fun environment, there may also
be opportunities to continue the
giving nature you developed as an
employee. Alumni can also remain
informed about current Foundation
events,
volunteer
opportunities,
alumni discounts, education sessions
and many other activities.
For those already retired or looking at
retiring in the near future, I urge you
to become/stay connected. There is
a warm and inviting group waiting to
have you among us!
Northwood’s Alumni Association
902-454-3353
[email protected]
The Diversity Committee is looking
to hear from you. When we plan
events and activities or create
displays, we want to ensure that
we are showcasing Northwood. We
believe we have an
invaluable opportunity
to learn and share from
one another.
We would like to
highlight the cultural
events, traditions and
celebrations that are reflective of our
increasingly diverse population. If
you have something you would like
to share, please forward to Theresa
MacFadyen or Debbie Stewart.
Winning
Employee Numbers
for May & June
Sponsored by your
SMART Committee
Northwoodcare:
596, 2861, 60503, 60785
If one of these numbers matches
your ID number, you’ve just won
$20!! Take your ID and a copy
of Life to the Business Office
to collect your prize.
Northwood Homecare:
31240, 32240, 32407, 32565
If you see your number, leave a
message for Christine Bowman
at 902-421-6380 and we will
mail you your $20 prize.
Northwoodcare Bedford:
50011, 50035
If one of these is your employee
number, please see Bill Ryan in the
Business Office to collect
your $20 prize.
Janet Simm
named
Top CEO
Northwood’s president and CEO,
Janet Simm has been awarded one
of Atlantic Business Magazine’s Top
50 CEOs for 2016. Janet received her
award at a gala dinner held in Moncton
on May 12th. She will also be featured
in their May/June issue.
Atlantic Business Magazine features
news and information related to the
Atlantic Provinces. Each year, readers
submit nominations for the Top CEO
award. All nominees must then submit
a package outlining their company’s
growth throughout recent years, as
well as their corporate, community
and industry involvement and their
responses to different CEO and
leadership challenges.
“This has been a humbling experience,”
says Janet. “I am so fortunate to be
leading an organization that has such
a strong corporate culture embracing
a commitment to social responsibility
and a philosophy that embodies a
commitment to quality improvement. It
is such a privilege to work every day
to support individuals to LIVE MORE.”
Northwood Life
14
reBoom
It’s Where You Start
Reboom registration line: 902-454-3351
West Bedford Community Party
Family fun with carnival games, prizes,
live entertainment and food vendors.
When: Saturday, June 25
12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Ivany Place, 123 Gary Martin Dr.
Halifax Block Party
Bring the family for a day of live
entertainment, carnival games, food
vendors, and more.
When: Saturday, July 16
12:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Northwood Terrace
Aging Gracefully with Naturopathic
Medicine
Learn how to optimize heart, bone, joint,
eye, and brain health!
When: Thursday, June 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: The Great Room, Ivany Place
Cost: Free
Register by June 17
Beer, Wine and Lavender Bus Trip
We’ll visit Meander River Farm and
Brewery in Newport Way; touring the
lavender farm and sampling local
craft beer. (A local lunch will be the
responsibility of the participant.) After
lunch, there’s a tour at Avondale Winery.
When: Friday, July 22
Depart: 9:00 a.m. from 2615
Northwood Terrace, Halifax
Return: 4:00 p.m. to 2615 Northwood
Terrace, Halifax
Cost: $45 Reboom members
$60 Non-member
Register/pay by July 8
First Things First
- Time Management
Do you feel like there are not enough
hours in your day? Learn tips and tools
to achieve a better life balance.
When: Tuesday, July 12
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Penthouse, Northwood Halifax
Cost: Free
Instructor: Halifax Peninsula
Community Health Team
Call 902-460-4560 to register or
communityhealthteams.ca
May / June 2016
Northwood Life
Dartmouth
City Safari
Dartmouth City Safaris Series
Join us as we venture around the city
discovering new restaurants, taking in
beautiful scenery and perhaps a little
shopping too. All outings:
Depart: 10:00 a.m. from 2615
Northwood Terrace, Halifax
Return: 2:00 p.m. to 2615 Northwood
Terrace, Halifax
Cost: $20 Reboom members
$35 Non-member
Trip 1:
When: Trip 2: When: Trip 3: When: Fisherman’s Wharf
Wednesday, June 22
Register/pay by June 8
Shop and Dine at
Dartmouth Crossing
Wednesday, July 27
Register/pay by July 13
Farmers Delight in
Cole Harbour
Wednesday, August 31
Register/pay by August 17
Chase the Lobster - Visit the South
Shore
First stop – the Hooked Rug Museum
of North America in Hubbards, and then
lunch at the famous Shore Club! Options
include a traditional lobster meal. Next,
it’s off to Mahone Bay for shopping and
strolling along the waterfront. We’ll also
squeeze in a stop for ice cream on the
way home.
When: Friday, August 26
Depart: 9:00 a.m. from 2615
Northwood Terrace, Halifax
Return: 4:00 p.m. to 2615 Northwood
Terrace, Halifax
Cost: $40 Reboom members
$55 Non-member
Register/pay by August 16
Trunk Show & Sale by Jay Set
Fashions
Update your summer wardrobe with
some great new pieces from such
popular brands as Tan Jay, Alia and
Nygard. Dressing rooms and rest area
available. 10% Discount on all purchases
+ door prize draw!
When: Monday, June 6,
2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall,
Northwood Halifax
15
May / June 2016
Falls are the
leading cause of
injuries to seniors
in Nova Scotia.*
• Afterafall,everysecondcounts.That’s
whereNorthwoodIntouchcomesin.
• Weofferarangeofhelpbuttonsand
automaticfalldetectors.
• Therearenocontractstosignandyou
cancancelanytime.
• Localvolunteerswillinstallatatime
convenientforyou.
• Fundingassistanceisavailable.
• And,ourautomaticfalldetectorprovides
peace-of-mindforfamilymembers.
Start living more confidently, call us at:
902-492-3346 or 1-800-461-3346
[email protected]
northwoodintouch.ca
Building a Better Sleep
A discussion on how to promote better
sleep in your life.
When: Thursday, June 30
1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Where: The Great Room, Ivany Place
Cost: Free
Instructor: Bedford Community Health
Team
Call 902-460-4560 to register or
communityhealthteams.ca
Free
installation
when you mention
this ad!
*Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness
When Someone You Love
has Dementia
Practical Advice for Families & Caregivers
…with Dementia Expert June Andrews
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Best Weight Basics
Get started on discovering your best
weight with basic strategies to live your
healthiest life.
When: Tuesday, August 23
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Penthouse, Northwood Halifax
Cost: Free
Call 902-460-4560 to register or
communityhealthteams.ca
Northwood Ivany Place,
123 Gary Martin Drive, Bedford
All are welcome. Seating is limited.
Please RSVP by June 3 to 902-493-5610
or [email protected]
Dementia Expert
June Andrews
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Northwood Life
May / June 2016
Hello, my name is
17
Northwood Life
May / June 2016
Ellie Day
and I work as a CCA with Northwood Homecare.
“Too often we underestimate the power of One of my major hobbies would have to be singing. I
a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, remember one client once told me “you’re singing,”
an honest compliment, or the smallest act of while I was mopping the floors. I then said, “ I’m
caring, all of which have the potential to turn sorry, is it bothering you?” To which he answered,
a life around.”- Leo Buscaglia. These have been “No I like it. You’re kind of happy-go-lucky aren’t
my guiding words as I have gone back to school you?” Singing is my passion and it has always been
a huge part of my life.
and started working at Northwood Homecare.
Before I started at Northwood, I was an Office
Manager at a physio clinic in Cole Harbour for 12
years. I am a mother of six kids and before I started
working at Cole Harbour Physio, I was a stay-athome mom, who took in other kids as well. I first
decided to go back to school and do my LPN at
NSCC, because I wanted to do a job that was more
hands-on care. While I was there, I found out I could
work as a CCA after one year of schooling. My
classmate John was working as a CCA at the time
and recommended I apply to Northwood and I have
been here since June 2015. I remember when I first
went back to school my husband Paul said, “You
are going back to what you’ve always done. You
cared for those six kids and now you get to care
for other people.” So far, caring for others has been
wonderful.
Working for Northwood has been a great experience
for me. All my clients have been so appreciative
and welcoming, which ultimately makes my work
more enjoyable. One thing I particularly like about
working in Homecare in Dartmouth, is that it
reminds me of my childhood. I have met so many
clients who knew my parents and remembered me
and my 13 siblings growing up and it really takes me
back. Although sometimes it is hard to balance my
second year LPN courses with my work as a CCA, I
find that every client I work with helps increase my
scope of practice and will make me a better LPN
someday. It is great when your job compliments
your schoolwork so well.
Besides singing, I also love to read. There is nothing
like opening the pages of a new book and settling
down in a chair with a cup of tea. In addition to
reading, I enjoy walking, eating chocolate and going
out on date night every Friday with my friends.
The thing that makes me happiest however, is
spending time with my family. My husband Paul
and I have our kids and their families over every
Sunday for dinner. Catching up with my kids and
grandchildren is the highlight of my week and the
food my husband makes is always “way good!”
Dr. Bill Thomas Age of Disruption Tour
What if everything you know about aging is wrong?
June 15, 2016
Location to be announced.
Part 1: Disrupt Dementia
2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Community workshop disrupting stereotypes around
dementia and featuring a film premiere by the director
of the award-winning documentary Alive Inside.
Tickets: $20
Part 2: Aging: Life’s Most Dangerous Game
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
A Dr. Bill Thomas signature “non-fiction theatre”
performance featuring an engaging blend of myth,
science, original music and storytelling; a joyful and
highly disruptive view of aging. Featuring musical
guest Nate Silas Richardson.
Tickets: $20
Details & tickets at drbillthomas.org
Homecare Team Meeting
Northwood Homecare takes great pride in the
daily feedback we receive from our clients on the
excellent quality of care our staff provide. We take our
responsibility very seriously and ensure staff are well
trained to meet all of our clients’ care needs.
In addition to our continuous training sessions, we
bring our full complement of staff together twice a year
to review service practices, learn new and interesting
initiatives taking place at Northwood as well as hear
from guest speakers on topics that are relevant to
their day-to-day job tasks.
The picture above is one of our team meetings held in
May with staff who work in the Dartmouth area.
Remembering Lynn Drinovz,
Food Services, Northwood Halifax
Lynn Drinovz joined the Northwood team in November 1980 as a PCW. She was very
active in the creation of the Staff Association, organizing corporate and staff/family
events. In 1999, Lynn returned to school to pursue Business Information Technology
and found her true calling in Northwood’s Food and Nutrition Services department.
Her commitment over the past 36 years to Northwood staff and residents will never be
forgotten. We will miss her greatly.
~ Jeanene Harnett
Remembering Alexina MacDonald,
HSW, Northwood Homecare
I had the pleasure of working with Alexina “Sissy” MacDonald for 20 years. Whenever I
think of her, I always smile. To me, she always exemplified professionalism; she was so
kind and caring. Taking such pride in how she cared for our clients. She will be deeply
missed and I am thankful for having had the opportunity to know her.
~ Jill Latta
Northwood Life
18
May / June 2016
19
Northwood Life
May / June 2016
Thank You
to our
event
sponsors
presenting
U-Pick Winner
Amy Doyle was this year’s U-Pick grand prize
winner of two tickets anywhere WestJet flies!
She’s pictured here with Griff and Caroline
from JACK FM and Faye LeBlanc, Northwood
Foundation.
Live More Distinction Awards
platinum
gold
This year, the Foundation introduced the Live More Distinction Awards;
an opportunity to thank six very special people/organizations who have
helped us deliver on our promise to help people live more.
Loving Care – Doug Ross, Lawtons Drugs
Doug has spent the past 17 years lovingly taking the time to talk with and
truly get to know the people he serves: Northwood residents, tenants,
staff and volunteers. Often referred to as ‘the Mayor of Northwood’,
you’ll often hear him say, “I’m doing better today because I’m talking
to you.”
Advocacy – Earle Mader, Program Director at 92.9 JACK FM
Earle used his compassion for seniors with the power of radio to initiate
the Northwood Christmas card campaign. Earle also continues to raise
awareness for Northwood fundraising events through the generous
donation of radio as a powerful community connector.
Live More Award Winners
Mickey and Colin MacDonald were honoured as the first winners of the
Hedley G. Ivany Live More Award presented by Helen Ivany-Parker.
Research – Dr. Janice Keefe & MSVU’s Centre on Aging
Northwood is privileged to work with MSVU’s Centre on Aging on many
research projects that advance our knowledge on long term care. This
partnership allows both organizations to contribute to the knowledge
base of senior care, and be the first to adopt best practices.
Seeds of Success
Mary Jane Brantnall spoke about the
importance of the Seeds of Success program
in her life.
Silver
Innovation – Dr. David Pilon, Dalhousie University
Thank to David’s contribution and expertise around mental health,
Northwood’s new and innovative Seeds of Success mental health
strategy is the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada.
Diversity – Rev. JJ Lyon, Metropolitan Community Churches
With gentle kindness, Rev. JJ creates an environment of inclusion
and diversity at Northwood, including our LGBT residents, staff and
community at large.
2016 Live More Awards
Over 500 guests attended the first annual Live More Awards at the
Cunard Centre on April 9 and helped the Northwood Foundation raise
just over $179,000!
Entertainment was provided by Cooper’s
Monkeys.
Community – Dave Demone & The Telephone Pioneers
The Telephone Pioneers have volunteered for over 30 years, installing
and maintaining Northwood Intouch products across Nova Scotia. They
also donate to our program, ensuring service for those in financial need.
Northwood Life
20
May / June 2016
Northwood Life
21
May / June 2016
Kronos is
Coming
Safe Client Handling and Mobility
As an organization, Northwood is committed to the
safety and well being of our clients and employees.
Assisting with client mobility is the number one cause
of injury for a home support worker. Resident mobility
may mean assisting a person from their bed to a chair or
helping to transfer a client using a mechanical lift.
In order to ensure the safety of both client and staff,
Northwood Homecare undertook the training of all Home
Support Workers and Supervisors in a new program
called Safe Client Handling and Mobility (SCHM).
This program uses the most up-to-date practices for
supporting mobility and transfers for clients.
Northwood Homecare is the first home care agency in
the province to offer this training, which is recommended
by the Workers Compensation Board. Since September
2015, 468 home support workers have attended this
training delivered by the Homecare supervisors. All new
staff also attend this training.
Northwood Homecare has also been acknowledged
for the decision to give all home support workers a pair
of Yak Trax; metal grips placed over shoes to prevent
slipping on ice.
Photo sequence:
Healthy Workplace Advisor, Vanessa Roy demonstrates
several of the techniques taught during the SCHM
training.
~ Written by Janice Chalmers, Homecare Staff Educator
Emergency Response Exercise
One of the most difficult tasks within the Emergency
and Protection Services Department is ensuring that
everyone is aware of our Emergency Response Program.
Northwood, like all special care organizations has a
need to ensure that emergency response plans are in
place to respond to emergencies and that staff
are aware of their responsibilities within those
plans. Further, the licensing and accreditation
processes and the Home for Special Care
Act, stipulate that plans must be tested and
adjustments made every three years.
In May 2016, in order to allow staff the
opportunity to respond to an emergency at Northwood,
we will be hosting a full scale exercise. The premise of
the exercise is that an explosive device has been hidden
at Northwood and we have to safely evacuate some
of our residents. People who are around Northwood
(Northwood at the Harbour, Ivany and/or Shoreham)
on the date of the exercise will note an increase in
activity level. We want people to know they are safe
and that the exercise is being conducted in a controlled
environment.
Our team will continue to update our plans
and provide training for responders within
Northwood. We are committed to ensuring that
everyone who comes into our facilities can
be comfortable in the fact that we are ready,
willing and able to respond at a moment’s
notice should an emergency present itself.
~ Written by Paul D. Carey, Manager, Emergency &
Protection Services
A new scheduling system for long
term care is being implemented at
Northwood! The first departments to
come on-line will be Halifax Nursing
and Bedford Support Services,
with a pilot group who have been
working with us to test the system.
A huge ‘thank you’ is extended to
Support Services at Ivany Place, as
well as 1, 2 and 3 Centre in Halifax,
and our floats for being a part of
this testing period. We appreciate
your cooperation and assistance in
helping us work out issues before
going ‘live’. Our Heartfelt Thank You!
Our next step is to prepare the rest
of Halifax Nursing for the transition
to the new system. In Kronos, your
punch clock record will dictate
your pay, therefore it is imperative
that each staff member have a
valid Northwood ID card and that
information on the card has been
entered into the Kronos system.
May is
Caregiver Awareness
Month
We want to make sure the transition
is seamless and your pay is not
interrupted. Therefore, if you have
not already submitted your ID card
number, now is the time to act
by contacting your Area Support
Clerk or Kerri Piper at kpiper@
nwood.ns.ca. Other In Care Living
departments will come on-line once
the initial departments are up and
running.
Eventually, when the system is
fully operational, you, as a staff
member will be able to:
• Enter your own time off requests
• Submit unavailability
• Submit shift swaps
• Receive your schedules on-line
Northwood would like to thank Homecare
clients and In Care Living residents for
allowing CCA students into their homes
for practicum placements. This provides
students with the opportunity to learn
the skills they need to become caring,
compassionate CCAs. It also gives them
the chance to get to know you
– the client!
Did you know that Nova Scotia has a non-profit organization that provides
free programs, services, information, and advocacy for unpaid, family and
friend caregivers?
Caregivers Nova Scotia is focused on empowering unpaid caregivers,
supporting their efforts, and recognizing the invaluable contribution they
make both to those in need and to society in general.
They do this through free programs, email and telephone support, peer
support groups, workshops and presentations all geared toward the unique
needs of friends and family giving care.
Caregivers Nova Scotia is not a home care provider. They are not able to
offer counselling services, or legal, financial, or medical advice, but will refer
you to organizations that do.
If you require some information, would like to talk to someone on the phone,
or attend one of their peer support groups, please contact them.
caregiversns.org
902-421-7390 1-877-488-7390
[email protected]
Northwood Life
22
May / June 2016
Northwood’s Aquariums
My name is Alex Poirier and I was asked to take
over the aquarium maintenance for Northwood at the
beginning of January 2016.
I was asked to make big changes to the aquarium
at Halifax and to add a new aquarium to Northwood
Bedford. With research and planning, followed by a lot
of wet elbow work, the 120-gallon tank was reborn at
Remembering Percy Bowser
Percy Bowser was the founder and
inspirational leader of Northwood’s
radio station, NWBC for many years.
He was fondly known as “Hound
Dawg” and gathered around him
a large loyal following. Thanks to
Percy’s efforts, seniors had a place to
go to hear music of their generation.
Percy passed away peacefully on
March 29, 2016 at the age of 95.
Northwood Halifax. This was quickly followed by a new
26-gallon tank at Ivany Place.
Both the Halifax and Bedford aquariums are right in front
of the beauty salons for everyone to enjoy. I hope you
like them and stop to ask questions next time I’m up to
my elbows in water.
The Diversity Circle
Proudly Presents…
The World at Northwood, A Multicultural Celebration
Tuesday,
June 21 at 2:00 p.m.
Northwood Halifax
Everyone is welcome!
Wednesday,
June 22 at 2:00 p.m.
The Great Room, Ivany Place
Everyone is welcome!
Northwood Life
23
Help! On Wheels
It was an ambitious maiden trip in my (new-to-me)
electric wheelchair.
The chair was a gift from a friend, who warned me
to “always wear your seatbelt.” Once, she forgot to put
hers on, she hit a curb, flew ahead hard, and broke her
leg in four places spending many months in the hospital!
I use a walker to get around and my boyfriend
Dennis has been in a chair for years. This is a problem
when we want to go on trips together and want to land
at the same place at the same time!
We spend time at each other’s place, but he likes
his place and I love mine. I haven’t driven an electric
wheelchair for many years so I thought a good “practice”
trip would be to Dennis’ place across town.
Dennis assumed I would be in control, having
driven one before – mistake number one!
He first told me how to steer the chair using the
joystick with only my forefinger, and my thumb keeping
my arm on the armrest to steer properly. I forgot how
important that little hint was. I remember in my original
lessons, when I would use my whole hand, the steering
was clunky and down right dangerous.
I was ready to go, my seatbelt securely fastened,
Dennis leading the way.
Since meeting Dennis in June of 2015, we more
than just “get along”; we have a give and take relationship.
For years, we both looked for a person who understands
our special needs. He says that all those years I was “in
training” to meet him! So I looked forward our first trip on this pleasant
Saturday, at the end of March. Dennis was a good
teacher, and I wanted to prove to him that I was an
attentive student.
May / June 2016
Dennis told me to look out for signs at the side
of the road and just when he told me that, I said “What
signs?” and, well, I ran into one! He also gave me hints
on how to avoid hitting people. Instead of trying to get
out of their way, just let go of the stick!
Navigating the first curb cut proved challenging.
I mistakenly darted out in front of a small red truck! It
screeched to a stop and scared the hell out of me,
blaring its high pitched horn! I straightened my chair out
and crossed the street. My heart was beating so hard,
and my life passed before my eyes in those few short
moments!
I continued on very slowly, commenting to a
fellow walking on the street that I was new to the skill of
wheelchair driving. He suggested that I should practice
in a parking lot after seeing my near accident. Dennis
said that traffic was light enough for me to learn, and if
he had heard that comment, he would have suggested
that the fellow take Dennis’ chair and try to negotiate the
traffic while having to put up with idiots like him!
We travelled to the West End Mall but I got
confused in the traffic and a concerned guy in a truck
told me that I was holding up traffic. I felt embarrassed
by my inexperience and looked at Dennis who assured
me that I was doing my best so to ignore and not worry
about such comments.
We arrived at Dennis’ place, exhausted and
suffering with numb toes and bruised self-confidence.
We enjoyed a nice supper of homemade chili and I felt
myself drifting off to sleep….”Lynn !!!” Dennis said we
should head back to my place before it got too dark and
this time I would drive Dennis’ less finicky chair.
We left his building, down Windsor Street past the
Forum, past the post office on Almon Street. He drove
behind me and he noted that I was flying down Almon
Street and he tried his best to keep up with me. By this
time, I just wanted to get home. I was tired and my right
arm was sore from being so tensed up. Like a little kid,
I asked Dennis over and over, “Are we there yet? Are
we there yet?” Repeating to me several times, “We’ll be
there soon.” At the time I felt I was almost out of control.
Poor Dennis, his eyes were watering either because
of eating the hot chili, or the wind whipping around his
glasses!
It was almost dark when we rolled into my place,
exhausted. Dennis was relieved and happy to get me
back home safely. I have a greater respect for those who
navigate the Halifax streets in a wheelchair. We haven’t
ventured out together on wheelchairs since but as
Dennis always says, we can do anything we want, only
slower!
Written by Lynn Eyland, Tenant, 2 Manor
Northwood Life
24
May / June 2016
Out in the Field
Submitted by Rebecca MacDonald, CCA, Northwood Homecare
Brake the Stigma Car Raffle
Brake the Stigma
Car Raffle
In support of Northwood’s Mental Health Initiatives
“Positive actions breed positive results.”
A very powerful statement yet one that rings true
for me. This statement can also be coupled together with being
‘emotionally intelligent’. In other words, not carrying
our personal emotions into our clients’ homes. Stay
positive on all accounts. Mood, conversations, taking
pride in our personal appearance, speaking positively
of the company that we work for. AVOID the damaging
negativity when it comes to idle chatter. Personally, I really enjoy my job. But like any profession,
there will be less favoured challenges that we will
encounter from time to time. This is completely normal
and to be expected. The way in which we handle those
challenges is the step that becomes paramount. In support of Northwood’s Mental Health Initiatives
Thank you Northwood for continuing to go to bat for
us all! Thank you for continually changing to better our
services and benefit us as individuals. Thank you for
recognizing the various challenges that every one of
us experiences - each on an individual basis and level
of intensity. Thank you for continuing to give us each
new tools to put in our hypothetical tool boxes, as we
represent Northwood in our daily travels. Thank you for
truly hearing our voices. WIN
WIN
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a 2016 Honda Civic SE
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There truly is an ‘I’ in TEAM! I will care for myself
physically, emotionally and psychologically so ‘I’ can
continue caring for others that need me, at home and
out in the field. Our clients need us. Our clients look to us for support and
positive encouragement. It is fair to state that our clients
each have plenty, day-to-day concerns and challenges
of their own. They truly do not need to have ours added
to their already overflowing plates. I recently attended an education session with co-workers
both from my division as well as many from within our
Dartmouth head office. I absorbed and benefitted from
the information shared, greatly. In fact, as I finished up
my final client of the day, following the meeting, I found
myself thinking steady on two key points that one of our
guest speakers had shared. For me personally, the messages and valuable
information shared was so timely. The energy that was
running strong amongst each of the speakers was
positive and empowering. I will resort back to the exercises that each of us was
given to do as a way to reflect on ourselves. I will
continue to draw a plate, with a rim and fill it with my
daily responsibilities. I will add to the rim the ‘feel-good’
activities that I want to incorporate into my day. I will aim
to prevent my plate from becoming too full. I will also
keep my dragon picture in my work folder. He will travel
with me while I am out in the field; keeping me mindful of
my personal signs of a plate that is too full. Supporting People Living with Dementia and
their Families, Northwood’s Out & About program
provides flexible and individualized programming,
socialization and companionship with supervision,
while offering caregivers a day of respite with peace
of mind. For more information, please contact
902-454-9706 or [email protected]
northwoodfoundation.ca
(902) 454-3069 (902) 454-3069
northwoodfoundation.ca
Debit and Credit ticket purchases
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Draw Date: September
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2641 Gottingen Street and 7071 Bayers Road
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123 Gary Martin Drive
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2016 Long Service
Award Recipients
In Care Living
Restorative Care
Staffing Resources
Administration
Client Care
Nursing Services
- At the Harbour
Christopher Morse
Simon Oakey
Bonnie LaQuant
Sheldon Leuck
Administration
Barbara Cross
25 Years
Cheryl Warren
Staffing &
Administrative
Support
10 Years
Mary Danquah
Tammy Harris
Gorden MacDonald
Dawn Marsman
Sharon Patterson
Dale Stoodley
Kiloran Williams
Catherine Young
15 Years
Cynthia Bolhuis
Crystal Boutilier
Nancy Brown
Beth Clamp
Derrica MacIsaac
Sharon Moore
Bekithemba Moyo
Fikirte Musbha
Craig Shaw
Catherine Simmonds
Brenda Slattery
20 Years
Teresita Bedoa Gorski
Denise Downey
Lisa Field
Leanne Saunders
25 Years
Lisa Billard
Paula Hopkins
Ann Munro
Doris Shea
30 Years
Anna MacNeil
Dorothy McNeil
Belinda McMullen
35 Years
Russell Martin
Client Services
10 Years
Patricia Howe
15 Years
Linda Quigley
30 Years
Pamela Hartling
10 Years
Resident Programs
& Services
10 Years
Shannon Nedelcu
25 Years
Cathy Tibbo
Food & Nutrition
Services
10 Years
James Cameron
John Warren
10 Years
Darlene MacDonald
Program Support
Financial Services
20 Years
Christine Bowman
Gillian Norton-Byce
20 Years
Mike Klironomos
Julia Osmond
25 Years
Darrell Oxner
30 Years
Lynn David
Jeanene Harnett
Charles Osborne
35 Years
Darryl Coffey
Lynn Drinovz
– in memoriam
Sherma Howe
Environmental
Services
15 Years
Wayne Barrett
Donald Beals
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Community
Engagement
ReBoom
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20 Years
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Out and About
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Organizational
Health & Safety
Northwood in the
Community
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35 Years
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Security
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Information
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20 Years
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– in memoriam
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Retired Staff
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20 Years
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Jean Hogan
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Health & Safety
25 Years
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Physical Plant
40 Years
Thomas Asprey
Nursing Services
- At the Harbour
20 Years
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40 Years
Daryl Adams