that his mother required extensive care in a home such as Stoddard. “There is no perfect home, but I can go to sleep comfortably and not have concerns.�
The Story of Mrs. E. Harris Witnessing the impact that the disease Alzheimer’s can have on your loved one
can be painful. Two devoted brothers share their experiences as being caregivers for their mother, Mrs. E. Harris, a retired nurse who is now a resident at Stoddard Baptist Home (SBH). “Just keep calm and live through the process.” Sage and reflective words from Mr. Michael Harris the younger of Mrs. Harris sons. Son, Michael describes his mother as an “old school nurse” who is used to nurses wearing all white and hats; however, Mrs. Harris has slowly adjusted to the newer fashion styles of nursing, as well as her lifestyle as a Stoddard resident. Mrs. Harris was once a resident at Stoddard two years ago, but has since returned due to her condition, which prevents her from living independently. “The staff seem to love my mother.” “Everyone is so friendly and easy to work with. “Stoddard feels like an extension of my family –They know who I am”. –son Michael Older brother, Rev. Tonny Harris, believes: “Caregivers should really get involved and remain active in the care of their loved one and show concern.” Both of Mrs. Harris sons are devoted and attentive to their mother. They are keen to their mother’s environment. “As a minister, I have visited many nursing homes, but the one thing I have noticed is there is no odor when you visit Stoddard. The building and the restrooms are always so clean” “It may seem like a small matter.” Rev. Harris emotionally struggled with his mother’s aging condition, but knew that his mother required extensive care in a home such as Stoddard. “There is no perfect home, but I can go to sleep comfortably and not have concerns.” To Rev. Tonny and Brother Mr. Michael Harris, Stoddard is honored to be entrusted with the care of your mother. May you continue to feel like family and have faith in our services.
Tammy’s Story On a sunny Friday afternoon, Ms. Tammy, as she prefers to be called, was outside enjoying the fresh air. Well dressed and hair perfectly coiffed, Ms. Tammy shares how unexpectedly life can change in an instant. This proud mother of two is a former restaurant and floral shop owner, who truly understands what it means to serve. With a strong business sense, Ms. Tammy enjoyed working with people until her life changed in 2001 due to a brain aneurism and then in 2008 a stroke caused by a second aneurism. For several years, Ms. Tammy was cared for by her husband; however, they mutually decided for her to receive medical care and residency at Stoddard Baptist Global Care (SBGC). When asked what she likes most about SBGC, her responses were, “The staff are so friendly and easy to approach are really helpful.” “You don’t meet a stranger here.” “And my CNA Paul is one of the nicest persons I have ever met.” It has been 3 years and though she has hopes to move back home, Ms. Tammy remains active as a Stoddard resident. She has a positive disposition and believes that by “getting involved” she can still make a difference and serve. On any given day, you can find her changing the daily dining menus in the solarium or attending resident activities including painting. As one who served the public, Ms. Tammy is now in the care of Stoddard; however, her time is well spent. One of her many goals is to serve as a voice for those who are not as vocal or unable to verbally express themselves. “I like people and I like to communicate.” As the newly elected President of the Resident Council, Ms. Tammy understands the needs of the organization including more nurses and funding for a new transportation van for activities. She has joined the Revelation of Christ Baptist Church housed at SBGC and has found great comfort from Pastor Reginald Tarver. Life can be interesting, but it is one’s outlook on life which can make the difference. For those that encounter Ms. Tammy, you will find her embracing life to its fullest!
In the classic book, A Tale of Two Cities, the famed author, Charles Dickens penned, the famous opening lines: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair…….. And while Dickens’ story is fictional, set in the late 1700’s capturing the acrimonious spirit of the French Revolution; many can relate to the current and unsettling political climate in our country today; yet, through it Dickens’ tale and Stoddard’s two stories have a few similar themes, such as compassion for those in difficult situations, acts of selflessness, devotion and the ability to thrive! In the last 7 years, Stoddard has grown its ability to care for those in need. Through the acquisition and management of the Washington Center for Aging Services, now known as Stoddard Baptist Global Care (SBGC), Stoddard is now able to care for an additional 423 seniors. Through this growth, Stoddard remains focused on innovative methods to improve upon our traditional programs and services such as such as, Resident Care and Medical Assistance, the “Stay Care” Respite and Rehabilitation Program and Therapeutic Recreation, also the addition of newer services, such as a critically needed Dialysis Center (opening this summer). With the influx of new leadership, new policies and changes are certain to occur; however, Stoddard’s devotion and compassion for the residents we are entrusted with is unwavering. Both Stoddard Baptist Home and Stoddard Baptist Global Care require your support to care for our residents. Approximately 85-90 percent of our residents require Medicaid funding, which only covers 85-90 percent of their services. Although this dearth has not drastically impacted Stoddard’s day to day operations, we are still impacted. Donations from local churches, organizations, private foundations and individuals are used to fund the dearth mentioned. These gifts do help with Stoddard’s daily operations; however, we often face unexpected challenges, such as the need for new transportation services for our residents to enjoy special outings or building enhancements for our resident living areas to create a more home-like environment. Please consider the two stories profiled and consider joining Stoddard’s ongoing revolution of caring for our elders. Your gift does make an impact! Charles Dickens wrote: “Nothing that we do, is done in vain. I believe, with all my soul, that we shall see triumph.” Stoddard’s daily efforts to care for our residents are not in vain and neither are your donations. Together we can do great things for Stoddard residents!
Help transform more lives entrusted to Stoddard, by doing the following: - Make an On-Line donation - Volunteer and spend time with our residents - Donate through the United Way of the National Capital Area (9672/9673) or the Combined Federal Campaign (74410/94454) Host a fundraiser to benefit Stoddard at your home, church or business
Save the Dates Monday, September 18th “Swing for the Elders� Charity Golf Tournament Argyle Country Club, Silver Spring, MD Friday, November 17th 115th Anniversary Celebration Luncheon Washington Plaza Hotel, Washington, DC To learn more please visit: www.stoddardbaptistfoundation.org