Oakridge Poem

Beginning Wednesday, May 6th, through Tuesday, May 12th, we will celebrate National Nurses Week. While Consulate Health Care values our nurses every day of every week, we would like to take this time to highlight our gratitude for all of their hard work, dedication and compassion.

There are many ways to express this gratitude; some people prefer to take physical action, but sometimes a simple note or poem can have just as big of an impact. A poem is a delicate but powerful form of expression, especially when written to pay homage to a beloved person. People write poems for a variety of reasons and demonstrating gratitude and love is one of them.

One of our care centers in Lakeland, Florida received a poem from a resident to her caregivers. Wanda Benson, a resident at Oakbridge Healthcare Center, wrote a touching poem to thank each Oakbridge nurse for their love and devotion to her and her fellow residents:

“Our Oakbridge Nurses”

You know we’re very fortunate

To have nurses such as you.

And though you work in eight hour shifts,

You stay much longer when asked to.

We know you come from all walks of life,

Different looks, shapes and sizes.

And no matter whether male or female,

You can quickly handle any crisis!

Your training includes so many things,

Filled with integrity, love and compassion.

With gentle hands and hearts,

And smiles that are always in fashion.

Professionally you help solve our problems,

And this help comes day and night.

And with caring eyes you watch us

Making sure that things are right.

So I’d love to thank you one by one

And call you each by name.

But in moving about, sometimes my memory runs out.

Just know I love you all the same!

I guess I’ve said enough now

So please know that this is true.

When God knew I needed Nurses

I truly thank Him for sending you!

Our mission is “Providing Service with Our Hearts and Hands”, so when we receive touching pieces of art, such as this poem, we recognize there is no greater compliment.  Wanda’s description of her nurses and their impact on her recovery makes us very proud; a beautiful example of our mission brought to life. We are so thankful for the loving hearts and hands at Oakbridge and our care centers across the country, and we will continue to recognize the outstanding work performed daily by our talented, compassionate caregivers.

Do you have or know of a special caregiver that deserves some recognition this week? We encourage you to leave a message in the comments below to show your appreciation for a specific nurse, or nurses everywhere, who helps you or a loved one in their daily lives. Happy Nurses Week!

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