Page 41 - Senior Link Magazine Winter 2021- Online Magazine

EXCEPTIONAL SENIOR CAREGIVERS

All the The last response given by Shawna was, "I plan to stay
Heartland here as long as they will have me." It's easy to see that
House residents she won't be going anywhere!
were very
pleased to
see Shawna
honored but
not at all
surprised to see
her attain the
well-deserved
recognition.
She is loved
and appreciated
by all the
residents.
Shawna's days
at Heartland
House are
busy, but she
never hesitates to stop and help anyone who needs a
little something extra. Sometimes, it is just a word of
encouragement or a hug. One of the residents described
Shawna as "approachable and kind." Another resident
said that she was just like a daughter to her, and she
was an angel on earth. The accolades for Shawna are not
in short supply.

Shawna makes time to do crafts with the residents, and
it's no secret that she loves glitter and sequins. She has
already joked with her children that, when she dies,
they should make sure they put some bling on her
coffin. Not only is Shawna an excellent caregiver, but
the residents also know that if they have any technical
difficulties with their television, phone or iPad, Shawna
is their go-to person. Shawna wears a lot of different
hats throughout the day at Heartland House.

When asked what some of the highlights of her job
are, Shawna immediately replied that she is passionate
about her job and feels especially privileged to assist
residents as they cross over to heaven. She said that
she loves being there, alongside the family members, to
hold their hand and sing them a song as they transition
to a new home. Shawna said these seniors have helped
her mature in her Christian belief. "Even if they can't
remember anything else, residents with dementia
remember their faith in God, scriptures from the Bible
and hymns they love. It certainly puts the emphasis on
what is important."

Lubbock Senior Link 41