This Letter to the Editor, written in November 2003 by Patrick R. Mayhew, was reprinted with permission from The Herald-Mail in Hagerstown, Md.
I wanted to make folks aware of an incident at Beverly Healthcare of Hagerstown, located on the Dual Highway.
A resident rolled his wheelchair off the sidewalk on the northwest area of the building. It was reported by a visitor to Rose Long, Administration Assistant, just as I was leaving the elevator in the lobby.
Rose reacted immediately by calling for nurses, and without a moment's hesitation raced to the resident's side. I followed her, but she quickly outstripped me. Once there, she surveyed the circumstances, ordered blankets, directed no movement of the gentleman, and cradled his head upon her lap.
It was quite cold and damp, but without a coat or wrap, she sat on the cold pavement and held his head and in a soothing voice kept him calm and reassured. She stayed there until help arrived. She had to be quite uncomfortable, but she never quaked her voice or changed her demeanor.
Rose deserves an "atta-girl." She proved that administration at Beverly is ready, willing and able in an emergency, and I am very impressed. I thank Rose, the Beverly staff on behalf of the Family Council, the residents and myself.
Beverly is a great place for your loved one. They are professional, safe and understanding. I have observed many kind acts by the staff, both in the line of duty and beyond.
Patrick R. Mayhew
Hagerstown
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