Jan

Hello Sarah

I know you and your staff are facing difficult times at Aldergrove. You must all feel worn down in such distressing circumstances. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the way in which you have kept going and for the wonderful level of care you have given Peter. There are many things that I have appreciated. Here are some of them:

• The speed at at which Aldergrove acted to lock down early and keep the virus at bay
• The diligence shown by having strict procedures over visiting and quarantining anything coming into the building, and the fact that you have been tireless in  maintaining these procedures
• The communication to keep relatives like me in touch with what’s happening
• The empathy and understanding when I (probably like  many others) ring often to see how Pete is. I can only imagine how stretched the staff must be with so many staff and residents getting Covid. Despite this the nurses, Martine and yourself are always happy to explain what’s happening. You all empathise with the distress I feel and your re-assurance helps me to be optimistic and keep going. It can’t be easy to deal with all those tears!
• When Pete had pneumonia in November he returned to you from hospital in a poor state. It was heart-breaking for me not to be able to come in and look after him.  I am so grateful for the personal care and attention he received and the progress he made. In particular you all persevered in encouraging Pete to eat, and eat safely. His swallow problems have always been a worry but when I was not there to help him, I knew he was getting the best care
• Recently, about two weeks ago, I was grateful for the speed at which the RIT team was called and for the phone calls to keep me posted. Since Peter  tested positive for Covid (my worst nightmare) you have been so kind. When we face-timed on Monday I could see the love and kindness that you give to him
• I also know that you fought hard to get the residents vaccinated sooner than the CCG were intending

Finally, some feedback specifically for you. What a time for you to have to step into Jeanette’s shoes! You have dealt with the worst crisis possible. I can only imagine how it must be for you to lose residents, to speak to grieving relatives, and to keep up the  morale of a diminished staff. All that as well as the usual practicalities of a busy nursing home, and developing Covid yourself. That level of pressure would cause most people to crumble but you have displayed resilience, passion, energy, determination and still held on to your kindness.

So thank you and every member of staff at Aldergrove for your dedication and hard work.

Keep on going, and if there is anything at all I do to help, just ask.

Warmest Wishes

Jan - 28/01/2021