National Nurses Week was first observed in October 1954, the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea. The English nurse became known as the founder of professional nursing, because of her pioneering work during the Crimean War (1853-1856).
Due to her habit of making rounds at night, Nightingale became known as “The Lady with the Lamp”. May 6 was introduced as the official date for the observance in 1982.
May 12, the final day of National Nurses Week, is the birthday of Florence Nightingale (1820-1910).
Well we are about to start another month in the midst of Covid-19 and we have all learned how valuable real friends are during this pandemic.
So many friends came to our aide in volunteering to open the Blossom Shop, and to make hundreds of cloth masks for the community. Others did grocery shopping for their neighbors, or delivered packages to them; while others sent cards to fellow residents in healthcare. Cheryl and her team developed a new walking club and started off with sixteen teams; plus they added movies to our in-house television station as well as live performances. Don Johnson devoted time to providing staff with a morning prayer over our Nortel system and delivering words of comfort to residents on live TV. The fact is everyone at Kirby Pines is a true friend to one another.
In May, we traditionally hold our huge picnic in celebration of Mother’s Day, but as I write this article, we still don’t know if Covid-19 will delay this event as it has with so many others. However, I do remember my mother giving me all the things I needed to know to survive this pandemic. I bet your mother did too.
Lessons learned like, “wash your hands, you’ve been playing with the dog” and “wash your hands, it’s time to eat” and “I don’t care if you washed your hands just a little while ago, go wash them again!”. And remember, “Don’t get too close to those strangers” and “cover your mouth when you cough” and of course, “wash your hands, you just coughed into them when you covered your mouth”.
Happy Mother’s Day mom, and thanks for just being you. After using my keyboard to type this article, I’m off to – you guessed it – wash my hands.
Michael Escamilla,
Executive Director,
Kirby Pines
A Nobel Prize winner, an old pastor and a boy scout were flying across the Atlantic when the pilot came bursting through the door and announced: “We’ve lost both engines, and there are only three parachutes on the plane. I only received my pilot’s license last month and I still have to serve a lot of people; I simply have to live.” With that he grabbed a parachute and jumped.
The Nobel Prize winner said: “Just last week I received the prize for being the smartest man on earth. I have a lot of work to do for mankind, sorry, I also have to live.” He grabbed what he thought was a parachute on the airplane floor and jumped.
The pastor turned to the boy and said; “Son, I have lived a long life; I have put my faith in what Jesus has done for me and I know for certain that when I die I will go to heaven. You are young and have your whole life ahead of you. You take the last parachute and jump.”
“Not to worry sir,” the boy replied, “there’s still two chutes left; the smartest man in the world just jumped out with my backpack.”
What a story!!! It illustrates something truer than we might think, “Look before you leap.” Sometimes we think we know more than everyone else. We consider ourselves smarter than all the rest. We may have even won outstanding awards. But when trouble comes how does it work out?
Many have grabbed the closest thing at hand. We have taken whatever is close and assumed it was what we needed and what we thought it was. But mistakes can be made and they can be great!
Scripture describes those who didn’t look and leaped too soon. “These people draw near to me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” (Matthew 15:8-9) It’s a paraphrase of Isaiah 29:13. We must not let this describe us!
Jumping out of a crashing airplane is one thing. But jumping out of Life into Eternity is quite another. Be sure you have the parachute God has provided through the Messiah. Don’t trust your words. Be sure you have a personal God relationship that will give you sufficiency and security.
Imagine riding in a one-engine plane with your 70-year-old mother who had just received her license to fly! Such were the experiences of Lea Koonce who grew up as the only child of parents who seemed determined to live life to its fullest. Both parents were professionals as well as artists and collectors. Her mother was an accountant; her father, an electrical engineer, was also a musician, making many of his instruments. Lea’s childhood was unusual but her underlying belief of helping others came from a sound religious upbringing. She credits her maternal grandmother as the one who instilled the belief in “The Golden Rule”. “Put simply”, says Lea, “I enjoy helping someone if I can”. A close friend has said, “Lea would give you her last dollar if she thought you needed it”.
Lea Anna Koonce was born in Memphis, Tennessee, in July 1953. The family moved to Huntsville, Alabama when she was 5 ½ years old. Her father was employed with a company aligned with the space endeavors originating in Huntsville.
During her childhood, Lea developed a love for animals, especially horses. She had her own horse and enjoyed riding as well as water-skiing and boating. While in high school, Lea did volunteer work with the Police Department. Soon the Police Department organized a program to allow other high school youngsters to ride along with policemen on non-dangerous calls. Lea was instrumental in designing the uniform for the group.
Following graduation from high school in 1971, Lea first attended junior college and then transferred to the University of Alabama at Huntsville. As often happens, she met an attractive, young man in the Air Force. A beautiful wedding occurred and the couple traveled for the next 5 years. While in Washington State, Lea enrolled in cosmetology school and became a hairstylist.
Lea Koonce pictured here in 1971
However, as sometimes happens, the marriage dissolved in 1978 and Lea moved back with her parents until she could become stabilized. During this time she combined hairstyling with other employment. For several years she worked in electronic supply companies, becoming quite adept at making and repairing circuit boards, telephones, etc. She was part of the Quality Assurance Department when she retired.
By 2011, health problems compounded by mobility issues made it necessary for Lea to require a motorized chair for transportation. Her father passed away and it was only Lea and her mother taking care of each other. Then in 2014, Lea’s mother passed away. The extended family (of which there are many) decided that Lea should move to Kirby Pines so she would be closer to them and situated in a place capable of meeting her needs. Lea did not want to come to Kirby Pines. She laughs and says, “I came to Kirby Pines kicking and screaming all the way. Especially, after the first night here, I saw that 7 murders had occurred in Memphis and I wondered ‘what have I got myself into?’ I was ready to go back to Huntsville. I finally realized I was as safe here as anywhere. I love it here now, it is my home”.
Soon after moving to Kirby Pines, Lea realized that she did not need all the paintings and artwork acquired by her parents. She reserved the LCR and displayed all except the one piece she wanted to keep. She invited her extended family to come and select their choice. Although some were quite valuable, she wanted to make sure that they were given to those who would love and treasure them.
Lea’s beautiful crocheted, beaded and cross-stitched work became noticed. Lea had finally found her niche at Kirby Pines. She was invited to share her crochet work with the residents in Job’s Way. This progressed to making pillows, hats for the 4th of July, picture frames and Christmas tree decorations. Slippers were made to give out as Christmas presents to residents in health areas. She eventually extended her visits to The Manor to play games and cards with the residents there. Occasionally, she gets called to help with a project in Assisted Living. Somehow, Lea discovered that several residents were unable to access or read the menus on TV. Now, she handprints the menus and distributes them so that residents will know their weekly menu.
Because of her disabilities, Lea has made it her goal to be able to walk again. She would need a hip and possible knee replacement. To accomplish this, Lea has lost approximately 115 lbs in a little over a year. She has done this with sheer will power!
To sum up the story of Lea, these are her words: “I have been known to encourage a smile rather than a frown. I want to get the Sunshine Group back in action. Perhaps that is why some people jokingly call me ‘trouble’ when they see me coming. I think Roadrunner might fit.”
The hours Lea spends helping others is admirable. She is always doing a favor for someone and she especially sees a need to interact with our fellow residents in the health areas ~~a lesson we could all learn.
Someone has said, “You can’t judge a book by its cover”. Likewise, one must truly look at the heart of an individual to find the gold therein.
Experts have said that walking could be the best exercise for seniors; it’s an effective way to reduce the risk for chronic conditions and improve your overall health. Some of the benefits of walking for seniors include:
Improves heart health. For seniors, walking offers numerous heart health benefits. Getting your heart rate up daily leads to a reduction in the risk for high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and even coronary heart disease.
Lowers blood sugar. After eating, taking a 15-minute walk has been shown to reduce the after-eating spike in blood sugar some seniors can experience. Your body is using blood sugar more effectively to strengthen muscles, and insulin works better, too.
Reduces pain. Studies have shown that walking helps reduce some pain due to chronic conditions like arthritis. Some seniors experience lower back pain, and walking even just three times a week for around 20 minutes can help strengthen abdominal and back muscles to decrease chronic back pain.
Low participation cost. After you’ve invested in a good, sturdy pair of shoes, you can walk basically anywhere- for free! When the weather permits, head to the park for a stroll on the path or simply walk around your neighborhood. If it’s too cold or rainy to go outside, head to a shopping mall instead.
Promotes social engagement. Walking offers an easy way for seniors to meet up with others, whether you join a walking group with friends or simply engage with neighbors while out on your daily walk. You can meet new people and enjoy your environment each day.
Boosts mental health. A daily walk can help you feel more positive about life. The endorphins released during physical activity create a sense of well-being, reduce anxiety and boost your mood.
Just like your need for a balanced diet of vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits, protein, and carbohydrates, your body needs a balanced routine of exercise that includes cardiovascular, strengthening and flexibility.
Any exercise that raises your heart rate slightly is considered Cardiovascular, such as walking, biking, or swimming. In the Oasis, the Nustep, the treadmill, and the recumbent bike will increase your heart rate. As we age, it is not necessary to push ourselves to the point of being out of breath and heart pounding. Slight perspiration and increased respiration rate is good and still being able to carry a conversation is a sign of exerting enough energy to utilize our hearts and lungs without overdoing. If you do experience shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness or pain – SLOW DOWN or STOP to rest.
Strengthening exercises build muscle and endurance. Lifting weights, Upper body and Lower body resistant equipment in the Oasis are strengthening exercises. Noodles and barbells in the water and water walking use resistance to strengthen arms and legs. When exercising, a little soreness is normal but constant or a sudden sharp pain for more than two hours following exercise may mean “you overdid it.” Always begin a new program gradually using lighter weights for a shorter period of time. On the bike or Nustep set the resistance on a lower number for 10-15 minutes. Each week add a few more minutes and increase resistance slightly.
Exercise classes provide a balanced program for cardio, strength and stretch. Gentle stretching with deep breathing before and after an exercise session restores muscles and helps blood flow to muscles and joints to remove waste products (lactic acid) and bring Oxygen and nutrients to replenish muscle cells. Stretching and a tall glass of water may help prevent muscle cramps. Here is a quick review of the classes we offer here and how they can help keep you fit. Water aerobics and Sit ‘n Stand classes provide Cardio, Strength and Stretch. Tai chi and Yoga Stretch help with strengthening, stretch, and range of motion (reach and flexibility)
Always drink water before, during and after exercising.
Check with your medical doctor before beginning a new exercise program. Begin exercise sessions with 15 minutes three times per week. Gradually work up to 30 minutes five times per week. That is 150 minutes of moderately strenuous exercise each week which is recognized by the Arthritis Foundation, American Heart Association, and Centers for Disease Control for Cardiovascular health and healthy Joints. Visit the Oasis or join a class this week and experience that “good” feeling that comes with exercise.
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind”; and, “Love your neighbor as yourself”. – Luke 10:25 27
Thanks to increasing health precautions such as washing hands frequently, practicing social distances, limiting visitors, and cooperation from residents, families and employees, Kirby Pines does not have any suspected nor confirmed cases of the coronavirus, known as COVID-19 to date.
Our practice of asking a series of questions and taking the temperature of all who ask to gain entrance onto our lush 60-acre campus is working. We all have to continue to cooperate with these measures and others, to stay healthy and make it to the other side of this crisis.
We continue to keep our most vulnerable residents safe, and thus no visitors are allowed at this time in any of our healthcare areas. The use of FaceTime has increased greatly. This method of communication for friend and family interaction and engagement is becoming the new norm for those we serve and care for.
For those in independent apartments or garden homes, very limited visitors are allowed after passing our screening process at the guardhouses. Our in-house television station has enhanced communication regarding spiritual programs, cultural events and overall engagement. This week we added a live morning prayer for our employees, led by house Chaplain, Don Johnson, as well as a live television service for our residents.
Cooperation among residents to practice social distancing has allowed us to gather in groups, although smaller than previously held, and do such things as honor our veterans on the National Vietnam Recognition Day; attend a special four-course meal for two; and even sing along with a resident playing the piano. Our healthcare areas are also assisting residents with cards and photos to be sent to families keeping communication open while staying safe.
Recently we have updated resident profile sheets to ensure we have the contacts each resident wants reached to celebrate a birthday or provide a simple update on how they’re doing.
You too may want to take time to create such a list for your family and friends and even neighbors, should you be asked to help them during this difficult time.
We remain grateful for your prayers, suggestions, and support. We wish you and your family peace and safety during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, our President and our nation.
As things change throughout this trying time, rest assured we will continue to update and inform our residents and employees of any new procedures or developments. For the most up-to-date information, please visit kirbypines.com.
Happy Easter! Peter Cottontail is certainly busy around Kirby Pines this year. From hiding eggs, to bringing smiles to us all as we confront the Covid-19 virus, Peter is doing his very best to bring Spring to us all.
Spring is the perfect time to start thinking about exercise and outdoor activities, and living at Kirby Pines provides you with many opportunities to enjoy both. If walking outdoors is a favorite past time of ours, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stroll around our very own nature preserve. In fact, at this time of the year, while walking along the path you will see daffodils, redbud and dogwood tress blooming. Kirby’s sixty acres make for a very scenic walk that other retirement communities just don’t have.
If you prefer walking indoors, you can do so in place on one of the treadmills in the Oasis or in the shallow end of the indoor pool. When using any equipment in the Oasis, be sure to let staff know so that we can quickly wipe it clean after each use. After all, we all need to participate in keeping the Covid-19 virus out of our campus.
Not to be outdone by Peter Cottontail, our culinary team is planning a wonderful Easter Brunch. One filled with traditional glazed ham and yummy deviled eggs. And won’t it be fun to see a few specially decorated Easter Bonnets during the brunch as well!
Your safety and that of our employees and guests remains our highest priority this Easter season. We take pride in delivering all that we can during this difficult time in the United States and in fact the world. We believe it is challenging times like these, that the power of a united team of residents and employees is needed most of all.
Happy Easter everyone!
Michael Escamilla,
Executive Director,
Kirby Pines
This unique “Parable” applies to more than the situations mentioned. It is all too descriptive of a much larger portion of our life today. Too often we are like the characters in the parable. Our priorities are messed up and we live with feelings we’ve set to an ultra-sensitive level. All too easily we ignore responsibility, shun accountability and rely on others to do the job.
It’s been said there are two kinds of people in the world today: (1) those who are willing to work, and (2) those who are willing to let them. It’s reflected in the 20-80 rule. 20% of the people do all of the work and make 80% of all the sales. Which group will master us?
Can we continue leaving the job to “Nobody.” Dare we any longer stay idle in facing the almost insurmountable obstacles at every level of our culture? Can we continue to leave the future in the hands of leaderless government? Can we allow the rich heritage and foundation of our great country to continue to crumble? Can we remain silent while corruption and crime steal precious values from us? Can we continue to live without vision, still unaware we are rushing toward another Noahic Flood? Can we carelessly close our eyes to the needs of so many around us, especially in their personal relation to God, or lack of it?
Today would be a great time to break the cycle. Let’s stop being “Somebody, Everybody and Anybody.” Let’s step up to today’s responsibility. Let’s strongly embrace this moment’s opportunity.
I Corinthians 15:58 gives us great insight: “Therefore…be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”
Remember, “if not you, who? If not this, what? If not now, when?” If not here, where?
Kirby Pines, a sister community of The Farms at Bailey Station, is part of the family of LifeCare Communities of Retirement Companies of America. For more information, visit retirementcompanies.com
National Nurses Week was first observed in October 1954, the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea. The English nurse became known as the founder of professional nursing, because of her pioneering work during the Crimean War (1853-1856).
Michael Escamilla,
Thanks to increasing health precautions such as washing hands frequently, practicing social distances, limiting visitors, and cooperation from residents, families and employees, Kirby Pines does not have any suspected nor confirmed cases of the coronavirus, known as COVID-19 to date.
Michael Escamilla,
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