Q1: What path lead you to Saint Anne Communities?
Throughout my nursing career I have chosen several different areas to work in: geriatrics, hospice, family medicine and cardiology. While all were rewarding, there came a point where I decided I needed to go back to where I am most passionate; long-term care. Working with the geriatric population is so fulfilling. It can be emotionally challenging when you have to say goodbye, but rewarding to know you were part of making their final days the best they could be. That never gets old.
Q2: What does a typical day as director of nursing look like?
A typical day at the nursing facility is very busy. I make daily rounds to ensure compliance and excellent resident care is being given. I also attend several meetings and update policies, as they have been changing frequently. Other tasks include meeting with my staff to ensure they have the tools to succeed, and I am constantly working with the state on guidelines and mandates to present to my team.
Q3: What is most rewarding about being part of the Saint Anne team?
In the past, I did my clinicals at Saint Anne and really enjoyed the environment. Working here is rewarding in several ways. Since it is a faith-based community, we offer daily prayers and mass for residents, which is so important to them. Also, the support for the staff is amazing. It makes everyone feel like part of a family here. I love that we are not part of a corporation. We uphold our mission, offering residents a culture of self-respect and dignity in a Christian atmosphere, which helps guide us in making decisions. We offer individualized, high-quality care while encouraging freedom and independence, in addition to preserving their dignity and uniqueness as creations of God. Our administrator and I work very closely with guidance from a board of directors to make Saint Anne great.
Q4: Can you provide an overview of the different types of care options Saint Anne offers?
Saint Anne Communities offers residential living, skilled nursing care and rehab services. All services are offered in one building and it is easy to navigate throughout the facility. During the year we have special events for our residents to enjoy. The Spooktacular is an event in October where residents get to pass out candy to trick-or-treaters. We host a Winter Wonderland event, which is a night of elegance shared with family. The residents also get to make reservations for a special Christmas dinner provided by the facility. We do special things throughout the year to make Saint Anne their home.
Q5: In what ways can Fort Wayne and surrounding areas support Saint Anne Communities?
A lot of the community support comes from families of loved ones that are or have been residents of Saint Anne, however we are always taking donations. Since we have an older building we are constantly working on renovations to better care for the residents.
Q6: What can you be found doing in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I enjoy going for rides on our Harley and spending time with our daughters and grandchildren. In the summer you can find me landscaping around our home during the day and sitting by a bonfire at night.
