Pool party a splash for Willows residents
Thursday, July 29, 2004 - Michelle Strutzenberger
A pool party hosted by a staff member at Willows Estate was a real splash for the residents who attended.

Rosalie Patchel, activity aide, invited a number of residents to her home for an afternoon of sunning by the pool, eating seasonal foods, and, of course, getting wet.

"The idea was just to give the residents a good day," says Toni Muscat, activity aide.

Seven residents spent the afternoon at Rosalie’s home. Teddy Mazzuca, life enrichment co-ordinator, and Sue Dubeau, administrator, also accompanied them.

The residents who were able sat on the edge of the pool and dangled their feet in the water. Others sat in lawnchairs under a canopy on the lawn. "Even those residents who use wheelchairs we transferred to the chairs," says Teddy.

The group spent the afternoon relaxing, looking at the gardens around the Patchel home and just enjoying the opportunity to be in a different setting than the long-term care home.

"Even the drive there and back was nice," says Teddy. "We take the country roads, so we can enjoy the view."

Various staff members from Willows have hosted parties for the residents on occasion. At Christmas time Teddy held a dinner party for several people in her own home.

"At Willows we all try to do things to make things better for the residents," Toni explains.

Teddy points out that it isn’t possible for everyone from the home to take part in all of the outings. That’s why they alternate the participants for each event outside the home. And for those who stay behind, Teddy says she always makes sure that there are special programs taking place during that time for them to enjoy as well.