More than 25 residents at AgeCare Valleyview seniors' residence braved some blustery weather Friday afternoon for a chance to see their friends and loved ones in a drive-by parade celebration during the COVID-19 pandemic.--NEWS PHOTO GILLIAN SLADE
gslade@medicinehatnews.com@MHNGillianSlade
More than 25 residents at AgeCare Valleyview seniors’ residence braved the wind and spots of rain for a celebration on Friday afternoon.
A convoy of vehicles decorated for the occasion drove past with horns blaring and occupants enthusiastically waving and calling out to the residents.
The residents who were not up to coming outside stood at the windows of their rooms and waved to the occupants of passing vehicles. In some cars there were whole families with children smiling and waving their arms vigorously as they looked up at the windows or spotted their love one outside.
Elizabeth Karmazynuk was swaddled in blankets with even one to keep her head covered. She said she’d been looking forward to the opportunity to see people passing by.
Staff who were wearing their personal protective masks hovered nearby to attend to residents.
A member of staff, Carmen Esford, said their devotion and concern for the residents has been keeping them going but the pandemic has provided some challenges.
“It’s been hard on all of us but something like this puts smiles on their faces and makes it worthwhile,” said Esford.
Staff have been trying to keep residents entertained during this time of isolation because of the pandemic, she said. They started a travelling tuck shop that goes to the doors of residents rooms every day. There have been extra games of bingo and more exercise programs to participate in.
As more and more of the vehicles drove by residents kept waving. Some vehicles were cheerfully festooned with balloons and bright decorations. Others had important messages of love for residents and staff.
“Big thank-you to hospital staff, nurses LPNs, housekeeping, laundry, kitchen of nursing homes,” declared one message decorated with smiling faces painted on coloured hearts.
While Valleyview had been hoping for warm and sunny weather, the wind and rain did not appear to dampen the enthusiasm of those involved.
Even as the convoy of vehicles came by the residence a second time, the sentiments of love and appreciation continued and residents at the windows of their units were still waving.
