Each month, we’re pausing to recognize some of the outstanding team members who work with us. Thank you for the work you do each day. You are all truly heroes.

Molly Taylor

Registered Practical Nurse at Traditions of Durham Retirement Residence

“Working in the nursing department, my colleagues and I have had to re-evaluate our approach to caring for residents throughout the pandemic. Many things have been impacted by COVID-19, but giving someone a great big hug or holding someone’s hand are the little things that we miss the most. It can be so difficult when residents are unable to see their loved ones, and it can take a toll on the team as well. Traditions of Durham is not just a building where I go to do my job, this is a home to so many individuals and I’ve been so lucky to work alongside such a strong nursing team who does everything they can to engage residents, make them feel safe, and lift their spirits. We are all like family here and each time I make a resident smile, it makes my day!”

Heather Ferguson

Director of Dietary at Cedarvale Lodge Retirement and Care Community

“After working at Cedarvale Lodge for 36 years, I will be retiring from my position as the Director of Dietary at the end of February. I have seen a lot over the years, but I have never quite experienced anything like this pandemic. Many of the precautions for COVID-19 were already routine practices for the Dietary Department, but providing meals [for] up to 200 residents in their suites during the outbreak was a huge adjustment. Working through my fears has been a challenge, as my mother lives in a retirement home and I’ve had to reconsider my outlook at work, ensuring I stay positive so I can be a strong support for my team. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned throughout my career and this last year is – we can’t let fear win. Just keep calm and carry on!”

Allison Macpherson

Licensed Practical Nurse at Ridgeview Lodge Care Community

“Now more than ever, I’ve learned how important team work is. For the past 11 years, I have been a part of the Ridgeview Lodge team and most recently, I completed school to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Since becoming an LPN back in July 2020, I knew I wanted to support my colleagues, residents, and their families in every way that I could. As a nurse, I try to stay as optimistic as possible, because when things get tough we all have to stay positive, especially for our residents. When residents are missing their families, I provide the kind words that remind them of home. When families are scared and uncertain, I reassure them that their loved ones are doing well. At the end of the day, there is no one person who can do it all, that’s why it’s important that everyone does their part to keep each other safe. Sometimes it feels impossible to achieve our goals, but if we work together, we can do it!”

Danyelle Gatsos

Life Enrichment Coordinator at Kensington Place Retirement Residence

“I started working at Kensington Place when I was a student and eventually began helping with resident programs on weekends. During this time, I realized how much I loved working with seniors, and I have been a part of the Kensington Place team ever since! As a Life Enrichment Coordinator, it is important for me to provide meaningful programs for residents, but finding ways to do that during COVID-19 has been challenging. Recently, we developed a program called busy box — a specially curated box for residents based on their interests and needs. The feedback has been amazing, and it means the world to me that I can provide something special for residents who are stuck at home.”