In the sadness of losing her grandmother, Vera Eckert, Angie Neff was touched by the love and kindness of Vera’s extended family at the Good Samaritan – Northwood in Jasper, Ind.

In this letter, she celebrates Vera’s life and all the people who made Vera’s time at Good Samaritan so special.

 

Dear residents and staff of Northwood Good Samaritan,

On Sunday, October 18, after more than three years of living at Good Samaritan, Vera Eckert peacefully passed away at your facility, surrounded by all four of her children. Your facility and staff made it possible for her children to be there with her. There could have been no greater gift to us than that. Forever we will be thankful and humbled by your decision.

When Vera (my grandma) was initially placed at Good Samaritan, she was not a happy camper. She had been living independently at home. But she had broken her hip and had been falling at home. It was unsafe for her there and so began her life at Good Samaritan.

After just a few days, you could tell her attitude was shifting. She liked the staff. They made her feel welcome and part of the Good Samaritan community. She also liked the food. “Everything is always good,” she’d say. Soon she was able to be up and go to the activities, too. She loved the activities! From her favorite, BINGO, to the arts and crafts to the live music. She liked it all. She met new friends and started building lasting friendships.

To all the staff: Grandma LOVED you! I have heard from many that she was one of the favorites! It makes my heart melt, because she was my favorites, too! Thank you for all the care and love you have given her throughout the years! I know Grandma appreciated you and loved each of you as she did her own family. These last months have been so hard, as we were not able to be with her how we wanted. But we know that YOU were with her. YOU were her family — from the nurses, to the aides, therapists, dieticians, housekeeping and more … Thank you for stepping in and being that role for us.

Thank you for also fielding all our calls. I know with a limited staff and full facility, at times we probably drove you crazy. To everyone who helped place Grandma by a window, turn her phone on speaker, and help in any way possible, your kindness will never be forgotten.

To the residents: Thank you for being Grandma’s friends. She loved you all! You also made every day better for her. She enjoyed getting to know you and hearing about your lives and families.

Just know that we are forever thankful for each and every one of you! You are special people. The words are small, but they mean so much.

Thanks again for all!

Angie Neff (Vera’s Granddaughter)

 

 

Give comfort and connection to those you love

This holiday season, we invite you to help shine God’s love into the lives of all those served by your local Good Samaritan location.  

100% of every gift through the Foundation will support the caregivers, equipment, services and more that make Good Samaritan not just a place to live, but a place to call home.

Please visit good-sam.com/donate to give.