You Are My Sunshine

Not long ago, a CNA at Emerald Ridge Rehabilitation and Care Center in Asheville, NC received a special note from the daughter of a former resident who passed away. It was the kind of note that’s difficult to read and even more difficult to write, but such a sincere and heartfelt message reminds us how special the relationship between a caregiver, resident, and their family can be. Sue wrote:

Ruth said the note meant more to her than she could fully express. For five of her last seven years at Emerald Ridge she cared for Sue’s mother, Elaine. Each day they would sing together and “You Are My Sunshine” was one of their favorite song choices. Inspired by their relationship, Sue now volunteers to work alongside Ruth at Emerald Ridge in the Alzheimer’s unit where her mother stayed. Her hope is that she’ll be able to bring the same sunshine to others that Ruth was able to bring her mother, though Ruth is quick to remind Sue just how bright her mother shined as well. Their special relationship is one she won’t forget – Sue’s note hangs proudly on Ruth’s refrigerator as a daily reminder.

Ruth credits her mother for the friendships she’s able to build with residents like Elaine and their families. Growing up, Ruth’s mother set the example for how to treat others. She was someone you could count on to be there, someone who cared for others, and it’s affected the way she views her work. “It’s not like a job,” said Ruth. “It’s like coming in and working with your family. There’s just a bond you feel with them.” Sometimes that just means being an open-ear when someone needs to talk or could use a good laugh. One of her favorite ways to get a chuckle is allowing her residents to apply bright red lipstick on her while they chat. “It’s to help me get a boyfriend,” she said with a joking grin.

It’s been seven years since Ruth started with Consulate Health Care and one thing she’s eternally grateful for is the encouragement and positivity she gets from the Emerald Ridge staff. “There’s so much good energy you feel when you come into work every day,” said Ruth. “There’s just – a lot of love here.” It’s caregivers like Ruth who provide that spark of energy and bring the sunshine to Consulate Health Care. We are humbled by your compassion and selflessness; you are truly our sunshine!