Celebrating National Nursing Home Week

This week is National Nursing Home Week and I had the pleasure of celebrating the kick off this morning at the Evangelical Home in Saline. The theme was "Spirit of America: A Tribute to Our Service Men and Women." Staff and residents organized a week of activities that kicked off with a balloon lift-off. Sue Hurst, administrator at the nursing home, delivered opening remarks to a room full of residents, staff and visitors, including daycare children.

Hurst led the crown in the Pledge of Allegiance before handing the mic over to Saline Mayor Gretchen Driskell, who shared her appreciation for everything the staff at the Evangelical Home does to make residents feel comfortable.

One of the more touching moments was when Betty Flanders, a resident at the facility, recited the poem "Flanders Field," by Lt. John McCrae. Richard Champine, a resident of Mill Pond Manor, read "America's Response," by R.W. Lillard.

To wrap up the morning's events, those gathered sang "God Bless America," while staff let loose nearly 200 balloons filled with messages of hope and prayers for soldiers.

The rest of the week sounds like fun, too. Tomorrow, Saline American Legion and the Honor Guard will visit with residents. On Wednesday, there's a sports theme and residents will play baseball in the atrium. Thursday is traveling day, with staff putting flags on a huge map of the United States, marking everywhere they've traveled. Friday will wrap up the week with songs and an ice cream social.

If you have a minute, stop by or write a note of appreciation to the nursing home's staff in recognition of their hard work. Also, please check out our video of Monday's kick off at www.salinereporter.com.