Giving back, and giving life

Becky’s journey at Consulate Health Care of Cheswick in Cheswick, PA began almost thirteen years ago when she was hired as an occupational therapy assistant. In over a decade of working in therapy, Becky realized that she really enjoyed spending time with the residents, but wanted to have the ability to impact them on a greater level than just their physical health. That’s when she decided to transition into the activities department.

After the previous activities director left the position about a year ago, Becky was recommended for the position by a regional team member for Cheswick. It was determined that Becky’s passion and sincere empathy for the residents made her not only suitable for the role, but an absolute fit. Shortly after, Becky became the new activities director, and has stayed in that role ever since.

It was not long before Becky took over the role completely and began making a difference in patient and resident lives. She started out creating seasonal and festive events such as their annual summer carnival, Halloween events, and even an art gallery. But, eventually Becky realized that her purpose in her role was not to just engage the residents, but to make them feel a part of something bigger. That’s when she started developing activities for the residents that would involve them in the community.

After speaking with Becky, we quickly learned that she is unlike your average activities director. She doesn’t just want to put smiles on faces, she wants to make hearts grow and give a sense of purpose to residents. She said “It’s hard for residents to leave home, they need a purpose and to be able to give back to the community”. So in order to provide that to them, she started a program where the residents make cards that are delivered to the local children’s hospital to give children who are ill, a pick me up. Additionally, she has the residents knit hats and scarves for less fortunate children in the community. She keeps her residents so busy being involved, that she needs two assistants to keep things running constantly.

Her efforts have proven to work though. When the state surveyor came out, residents pulled him aside to let him know that Becky exceeds her call of duty and that they have no complaints about the events that she puts together. When we asked Becky why she thought the residents felt that way she said, “I really try to incorporate the residents’ families into my events and I always invite them to our evening programs.” Also, Becky allows the residents to vote on what activities they want to participate in. The level at which she lets them feel heard and a part of something, is above and beyond what is expected.

We believe that Becky’s respect for the residents is what drives her success in her role and it’s what makes the residents happier overall. When we asked Becky what she believes is the most important Core Value and part of her job, she said, “Respect. When you respect the residents enough to understand what is important to them, you can hone in on their individual needs and wants. Respects their stories, learning from them, what their life’s greatest joy is, and try to provide it for them.”

After hearing from Becky and feeling her sincere compassion for her residents through the phone, we immediately became beyond grateful that she moved into her new role and that she works for Consulate Health Care. Becky embodies everything it takes to be a compassionate caregiver and we are so thankful she plans to stay here for the long haul. Thank you for all that you do each day, Becky!