Another Gator (John Deere that is) came to the Franklin United Methodist Community today thanks to the gift of some special residents on our campus.  Our Grounds staff uses theses John Deere units to maintain the lovely grounds and yards of nearly 300 residents in our 197 independent homes.  We are proud to be a not-for-profit, faith-based community, where neighbors assist one another.

Today we received yet another handwritten thank you from a family as their loved one moves through the "continuum" of care.  That means, mom has been independent in an apartment, then needed some assistance, spent time in a special "mild" dementia unit, and is now moving to our highest level of care and assistance as her disease progresses. 

Her daughter writes on behalf of her and her siblings the following:  I (We) have been extremely pleased with her care in the Murphy Center . . . the nurses, aides, activity persons, facilities' staff, and social workers have been A+.  Franklin United Methodist Community has always been "right on top" in how our parents have received the care they've needed over the years.  Thank you, thank you, with warmest regards.

What a pleasure it has been to serve these special seniors and their immediate family.  We salute this remarkable family for the loving support and care they have provided their mom and dad through visits, phone calls, cards, and bringing the grandchildren over the years.  They have given their parents many "very good days!"

We receive many notes from residents, Rehab guests, and their families.  Most are very "noteworthy" and filled with appreciation for services we have provided.  Here's what Mrs. F.R. said today in her note:

"Thanks . . . being with folks like you I didn't feel alone when I came (to visit). I knew I would get hugs and smiles.  My sister had the best of care . . . and you did things you didn't have to do for her. You felt like my family".  

In our orientation classes for new staff we encourage them to treat our residents and guests like their own family-Grandpa or Grandma.  Sounds like it is working!  Send us your notes and let us know how we are doing for you and your family.

Many are calling it a "Weekend to Remember" as 19 residents of the Community participated in a spiritual retreat known as an Alarga Stroll.  Volunteers who reside outside the retirement community put on the event with the assistance of our FUMC Chaplains,  and began on Thursday night and concluded on Sunday.  A well-coordinated activity led by teams from the Emmaus Walk and alumni who supported our residents, it was reported that more than 90 persons from throughout Indiana attended some of the memorable events.

This may well become a model for other Communities to use and we are most grateful for the opportunity for our residents to growth spiritually.  It once again demonstrates our mission at FUMC of "providing a retirement experience filled with well-being and wholeness".  Perhaps you know someone who would like to join our Community for their personal growth and adventure with other like minded older adults.

My last blog of July 31st told about our "Baby Days" that our Activities Department hosts to help our residents enjoy seeing babies and small children.  Here's a couple of pictures that will help you see why the residents love to "make faces and giggle" when these little ones visit.

We offer a wonderful opportunity for persons of all ages who would like to volunteer their time in connecting with our residents.  Perhaps you could visit someone, deliver some mail, read the newspaper, share a song, push a wheelchair, bring in your dog, play the piano, serve root beer floats, and more?       Why not invest in making a difference in some one's life? 

Call Jack in Activities at 317-736-1167 to volunteer.  We'll work with your schedule and interest.

Have you ever noticed how one little baby can draw a crowd?  Just last Sunday our Pastor introduced us to his first grandchild, a 6-day old baby boy.  After church, a crowd surrounded the new parents and baby.  Proud Grandpa had to stand at a distance and watch the flurry of activity.

Yesterday, we had "Baby Day" on our Advanced Special Care, where we offer help and hope for those most severely affected by Alzheimer's and dementia.  The 29 residents enjoyed three little girls whose parents brought them to meet the residents and entertain them on the floor-crawling, trying to walk, playing with toys and more.  Two 9-month olds and a one year old baby, brought the residents to life as the residents clapped for them, touched their hands, wiggled their feet and made funny faces trying to get each baby to react.

What a thrill to watch the interaction spanning some 80 or more years between God's children.  No matter the memory loss or condition, these babies bring a smile to the residents and their faces reflect that "this is a good day!"  It's just one example of  what makes us different - as we carry out our not-for-profit, faith based ministry.

As we prepare to celebrate our freedom on the 4th of July, our dietary staff prepares for our Annual Parade held this afternoon.  The old fashion ice cream cart pedaled by friendly staff member, Hayli, will be in our parade with the Mayor and other celebrities, surrounded by fire trucks, police motorcycles, convertibles, vintage cars, golf carts, and bicycles.

Residents and guests will be lining the Methodist Drive which surrounds our campus cheering and waving flags.  And of course, enjoying the ice cream distributed from the cart above!  Have a great July 4th and remember to thanks all those who made our freedom possible.  We salute our veterans!
It is an honor and privilege to now have the opportunity to serve them, as they have served us.