Editor, The Spotlight:
At the end of October 2011 I slid off a slick landing and fractured my leg. My life changed in an instant. The recovery period has been long and slow. But it is this very experience that revealed to me things going on in the Delmar neighborhood that have filled me with a sense of gratitude and an even deeper appreciation for this area.
Following surgery, the Good Samaritan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center staff, from reception to business office, nursing staff and nurses’ aides, those who keep the place clean, the salon, social workers and the physical therapy and occupational therapy departments moved me from a stage of dependence to one where I could return home. They exhibited kindness, respect and professionalism in the performance of their duties. The physical therapist from the Visiting Nurses Association helped me transition from the wheel chair and walker to crutches and, finally, a cane. The Bethlehem Seniors lent equipment and offered suggestions for obtaining other services not in their realm. M&T Helping Hands and Home Instead have gotten me to appointments and helped with household tasks and grocery shopping. Postal carriers took extra steps to deliver the mail.
From day one of this life-changing event I came to know neighbors and people from my parish on a deeper level. They offered willing assistance in a variety of ways, even if it meant just waiting sometimes. Many of them are helping others on a regular basis, unobtrusively and quietly. These caring, compassionate individuals have made such a positive difference in my life. Like the good cells in a body, keeping it healthy, they are in Delmar: cells for good in the neighborhood.
Mary Ann Carreras
Delmar
