Kudos From Kelly

Our Everyday Heros By Kelly McNamara

Bernice Addo: Dr. P is a uniquely admired, loved and revered client of Always There Home Care. This 95-year-old retired cardiologist is fortunate to live out his years in his beautiful home in Farmington, as a member of Seabury At Home program.

For nearly five years. Dr. P. has been the recipient of a unique and special love by his full-time caregiver Bernice. In addition to her usual tasks, Bernice also observes and assesses him carefully for any impending medical issues.

Though his lovely home has many breathtaking views of the Farmington valley and Hartford, Bernice and Dr. P are most often busy with local road trips. With Bernice driving and Dr. P navigating, they enjoy lunches out, trips to the grocery store, ice cream parlors, and other local sites. They take walks in his lovely neighborhood and on nearby Hill stead museum grounds.

He is a well-traveled, well read and interesting man, and has found a joyful companion with whom to share his days. Even during the pandemic, they found many activities with which to busy themselves. Dr. P discovered Korean TV and enjoyed new found foreign language films, just one of his varied interests.

He delights in his friendship with his lady friend C., a lovely woman close to his age, and she sometimes accompanies them on their outings, not wishing to miss any fun. She and Bernice enjoy dressing up and complimenting each other’s outfits.

But Bernice and Dr. P have been more than friends and guardian/companion. Bernice is very knowledgeable about her client and is a staunch advocate when she observes any symptoms, even minor ones that may signal a more serious ailment. She often presses Dr. P’ s physician to treat a medical issue more seriously since she keeps a daily eye on him and knows his symptoms. She is a tireless advocate for her special client. During a serious medical required admission to UConn medical center, she remained in touch with him and was very involved with his after care at home.

Bernice is an amazing cook and prepares wonderful meals for her client as well as his family on occasion. She has celebrated several holidays with them. Bernice is almost a family member of Dr. P’s family and Bernice’ husband Charles is well on his way to gaining this same status, since he and Dr. P. share many conversations in French and share many interests. We are delighted that Dr. P and Bernice are adventurous and will plan more outdoor events this summer for them to attend. We will of course make sure his lady friend C comes along!

Thank you so much Bernice for being YOU and enriching the life of your cherished client.

All caregivers mentioned in this column will receive a bonus and our sincere gratitude! Many thanks to all of you for once again extending yourselves to ensure that we are of course Always There…!! ■