COMO LAKE’S SUMMER KICKOFF

I was invited to attend the Como Lake annual BBQ on June 18th and I have to say that this home was a lovely surprise!  It was spacious, spotless and it was immediately evident that everyone attached to the home was very proud of it.   While I was growing up, our kitchen was always the gathering place, and it was no different at Como Lake House because everyone was milling around the kitchen.   There was a lot of good - natured teasing, food preparation and stories.  I learned about how and when staff came to Como Lake.  I learned that Teresa - who has worked there for 14 years, is referred to as the “Mama” of the home.   It was very evident by their interactions with the supported individuals that the staff were a very cohesive, almost family-like group.

This was the first time I had been to a MAPCL home supporting individuals with high medical needs.  My only experience is with an extended care facility that a family member was in - the residents sat for hours in the living room with little or no interaction with staff.  I found Como Lake House had a very different atmosphere.  Como Lake staff were very compassionate in their care of our clients, they encouraged participation and made the entire evening fun! Staff and supported individuals were “coaxed” into singing Karaoke and everyone enjoyed it - although I must admit a few of us were tone deaf and I’m sure I heard a collective groan from the neighbours!  There are four supported individuals at Como Lake and I saw them laughing, interacting with staff and enjoying themselves.  A true tribute to the wonderful staff!

I would encourage everyone in our organization to take a closer look at our services and see for yourself why our agency works so well!   It has been an enlightening and humbling experience for me, and it makes me quite proud to be part of this organization!

Thank you Como Lake House for inviting me!

by Simone Brandle