"We are writing this letter to express our deep and sincere gratitude to the management and staff of Port Healthcare Center for the extemely competent and loving care given to Dorothy during her more than two years as a resident of the facility. During those 2+ years were were present as visitors at least twice a week—sometimes more than twice. Rather than omit the name of a person who contributed so faithfully to her well being, we will not mention anyone by name, but will simply relate our observations based on the many visits which we made: •All the people who cared for her were capable and seemed to enjoy their work. •At no time did we ever encounter any unpleasant odors. •Dorothy was always dressed in clean clothes and was as happy as her situation allowed. •The people at the nurse’s station were always well informed as to Dorothy's condition—both mentally and physically. •The interior of the facility was always clean and sparkling. •The exterior was well maintained and neat in appearance. •The decisions of the medical staff appeared to be competent and well thought-out considering Dorothy's age and infirmities. We feel that, based on our personal experiences we would not hesitate to have any loved one as a resident of the Port Healthcare Facility. Thank you, one and all, for your continued loving care for Dorothy Allen during her time as a resident under your capable care.” To Whom It May Concern: "Often times days are filled with the hustle and bustle of our own daily lives. It is difficult at times to separate ourselves from our own daily life pressures and immerse ourselves into our daily work routine. Those who can, are the true professionals in their field. They leave behind their own life and take on the role for those who are unable to do so. They form an extended family for care, comfort, guidance, kindness, and perhaps even a special bond of love. It is with these thoughts in mind that I would like to share the exceptional services that Betty (social services), Linda (billing), Manny (kitchen), Linda and Susan (both 1st floor nurses) provide. The nursing home world was a new experience for me and my family. These individuals were able to unravel the nuances to this new world and make it easy to navigate in their areas of expertise. They each took an individual approach bringing their own strength, and experiences into the process, encouraging an open-door policy to inquire about any questions that the family might have. Their personalities make each of them a perfect fit for their unique positions. Betty with her warm, genuine and caring smile. She always takes the time to say hello and provide a hug to those around. Yet her true skill comes in keeping things running smoothly. Although it appears seamless, we realize it is not. Betty exemplifies the meaning of an open-door policy. She is an asset to the establishment, a true professional. Linda keeps billling running smoothly. I often joke with Linda asking if this is really where she sleeps at night. She is a busy lady, but never too busy not to return a call or answer a question. Manny has a natural charm that shows his pride in his profession. He goes above and beyond to provide for the residents. This is not an easy task as many people like many different things and with the aging population not all foods are easily tolerated. Yet Manny and his team work to ensure this difficult goal. Linda and Susan are both outstanding nurses. They have the professional ability to ensure that the residents under their care are properly cared for; yet they do so much more. They take the time with the family to discuss their loved ones individual daily activities; they are quick witted, and bring a smile to those around them. Their multi-tasking skills are exceptional. Many times the timing of the family isn't always the most convenient for either of these ladies. They take the time or ask for a few minutes and then spend the time with the family member and resident. Trusting the care of your loved one is difficult. Yet these true professionals provide family members with the peace of mind they need and most importantly provide the resident with what each and every individual needs and desires. Port Healthcare is more than a nursing home; it is a true residence for those who dwell within." With the utmost of praise for each and every one of you. Bud's daughter. "Our family is forever indebted to you for the loving care that you provided to Dad Macklin and I remain overwhelmed by the kind hospitality with which you received us during our visit. How can we possibly honor you adequately for being the heavenly Guardian Angels that you are? Sweets from Winfrey's are a good start. With all our love." Thanks. "To: All Shifts of Second Floor Nurses & CNA’s: How can words express the thankfulness I feel for the love and care you provided my mother during her two-year stay at Port Rehab. When mom was placed at Port, I thought it would be a “short-term” placement. When I realized that I probably would not be able to take mom back home with me...I started my search for a “prettier” place for mom to stay. Every day, I made appointments to view “other” facilities. Meanwhile, I would come to visit mom at Port. I started to see beyond the “pretty” chandeliers and furniture. I saw how you kept my mother clean. I saw how you respected her wish to stay in her room and sit in her favorite maroon chair. I saw how you noticed the “little” things that mom liked. I saw how you helped her keep her dignity—even when she soiled herself. I saw how you joked with her to make her laugh. I saw how you worried about her when things weren't just right with her. I saw how you welcomed me every day. For all of this, I will remain eternally grateful that I had the “wisdom” to see what is most important in “end of life” care...It is the “people’ who work in a facility such as yours—NOT the decorating! When mom was being checked to see if she had passed...we all heard a bell ring. It was not a “Port” bell but a very pretty and unusual sounding bell. The CNA in the room said: “Oh my, an angel just got her wings!” She looked at my mom and got the chills. Maybe the bell was announcing my mom's arrival into the hereafter; however, I also think the bell is telling all of you that YOU ARE ALL ANGELS IN WAITING. "Dear Management of Port Healthcare Center, I am writing this letter on behalf of my family as a credit of outstanding professionalism and work ethics of your entire staff. My grandmother passed away on December 23rd, 2006 after declining health from her broken leg. We cannot even begin to express the dedication of your staff to the needs both physically and emotionally that they have provided over these years to my grandmother. It is out of kindness of heart, being sensitive to the needs of others and love that they accomplish what they do each and every day. It is not just a job it is a kind of ministry that they provide. They definitely deserve a raise—I am serious! It was a big adjustment for my grandmother to have to come to Port, but everyone made sure that she was safe and secure. I know that the staff's efforts to make her comfortable, doing her make up, sitting with her when she was having a bad day or just taking the time to get to know this incredible person, made a huge difference in her stay at Port. So it is with great admiration and respect that we thank you all for everything that you have done. Any patient that comes to live at Port is truly blessed to have a staff that goes above the call of duty and is there for them like you have been for my grandmother. To all the nurses and aides we thank you for your support, your help, your wisdom and your love that shined through all you did for her. To the activities department it is a blessing that you exist and show people that just because you age doesn't mean that you aren't interested in doing things that are fun. To the kitchen staff for the last three years you have provided meals, not only for both of my grandparents, but also for the family. Sometimes the best conversations and laughter came out of just being able to eat together. To the laundry room and maintenance department thank you for your dedication in all that you do to make sure everything is clean and in order, so the whole team can provide these great services. If we have missed anyone we are sorry. You will all be missed, but surely not forgotten. You have blessed us and have made your individual marks on not only our grandparent's lives but also on our families. Thank you for the laughter and tears. It has been an enriching experience for all of us. I know that both of my grandparents are smiling down on you from heaven. I also know that God will bless you for all your unselfish acts of kindness. This isn't really a goodbye...just a letter of appreciation that has touched a moment that is now frozen in time....We will be down to visit because in a way Port has been a home to us and all of you have been like family. So God bless you all...You are a treasure...Keep passing your gifts along...for it makes a world of difference... Psalm 136:1 Give thanks to the Lord because He is good. His love continues forever. "Dear Mr. Gangi, My mother passed away at Port on Nov. 20th. She had been a resident for approximately three years, and during that time my brothers and I were more than comfortable, knowing she was in very good hands. You have a remarkable staff—I don't know where to begin! Betty is an incredible woman—her love and warmth and humor toward my Mom were more than just a job—she's an astonishing person. One of the nurses, Mary, the head nurse on days, became my best buddy right from the start. She gave me a shoulder to cry on and made me laugh at all my Mom's hijinks. She never minded how many times I called and always told me how much she and the other staff loved my Mom. Sharon the night nurse saw my older brother quite a bit and I'd see her on weekends—another sweetheart of a person. All the nurses, LPNs, Aides, Tanya, Millie, Judy and more—they all told me wonderful stories about my Mom and how she was loved and how she'd be missed—I saw the tears and felt the love and can only say I'll miss all these wonderful, caring people who made the last months of my mother's life days filled with sunshine, caring and laughter.” "Susan, I know its been a while but things have finally calmed down! I think of you often with the kindness, compassion and understanding that you displayed when my mother was there. My apologies to you for the many family problems that we had. It was very embarrassing for my brother and I to experience and extremely painful. Recently I received permanent guardianship. Certainly not something joyous, but perhaps it will prevent the horrendous time we experience. Mom is doing fine at her home, just turned 94! I visit her daily after work and I'll take every good day that I share with her. She's a remarkable lady! Again Susan, you were wonderful. If you and Joe were not there, I know I could not have survived." "Thank you for the good job you do running the Port Rehab. I like it here and am very happy. It's so clean and organized. The nursing care is TOPS also. I feel stronger and safe!" “Dear Dr. Arcidi, Monday afternoon, January 22, my son drove me home in accordance with the discharge plan. The treatment and attention during my stay at Port Healthcare Center was excellent in all aspects. In my case, the therapy sessions filled a paramount need. The occupational and physical therapy was detailed and explained with patience by your five occupational and physical therapists and their director. In addition, the conscientious care by all nurses and attendants was appreciated by me. Good luck. I know you will continue to see to it that your present high standards will be preserved by your various staffs.” “Dear folks at Port Healthcare: I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your efficient, thoughtful, and compassionate care of my step father Charlie. He loved all of you and so do I.”