Fine organizations available

Sept. 18, 2012

Leland, Iowa

To the Editor:

We would like to congratulate the people of Washington County on the very fine organizations available to assist area residents.

Our father, Wayne Wagner, received medical services at the Washington County Hospital and Clinics this past summer. His treatments by Dr. Frier and the staff of nurses, aides, dietitians, therapists and housekeepers were excellent. The staff was always kind, pleasant and caring. Each and every one spent the necessary time with Dad to see to his needs. He was able to order meals from an extensive menu three times a day. He received flavorful and healthful food from their dietary service. He truly received personalized services. WCHC, your local hospital, is close and convenient. Washington County residents can be very proud of their hometown hospital.

Another organization is Hospice of Washington County. The staff provided the necessary needs to our father when they were most needed. If you are unsure if they can assist you or your loved ones, call them; they want to help. They not only provide for the patient but also the caregiver. Kara, Sandi, Jill, Jean, Mary, Jamie, Danielle, Leanne, Shawn, Jina, Whitney and Kitch were always caring, respectful and sensitive to each of our needs. When we needed to talk, someone was available. When we needed time away, a volunteer came to our aid. They help make the end-of-life transition understandable and more bearable. They will also provide a host of accessories to aid in the care of your loved one. As professionals in the medical field they are very knowledgeable of the health care and other needs of their clients. I can?t emphasize enough just how valuable their care was for us. Washington County residents can rely upon them when their services are needed most.

Lending Hands is another organization which serves the Washington area well. It provides weekday adult daytime social and care programs to its clients. Their facilities provide daily activities, social time and, if needed, personal hygiene care. This gives primary caregivers time to attend to other necessary daily and family matters. They always care for each and every participant with a kind and caring attitude. Our father volunteered there once a week, sharing his homemade banana bread and conversation with the staff and clients alike. Everyone there looked forward to his arrival. He continued those visits until shortly before his death. If you are a primary caregiver for an adult family member, Lending Hands is there to assist you.

The Central Park Community Center provides a friendly social atmosphere for Washington and surrounding areas. Max Cousins and a staff of volunteers (our Aunt Thelma Wagner included) offer coffee, conversation and Bingo to their visitors. There are also card games and puzzles to entertain you. Many health-related aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, bathroom accessories and other items are available for loan free of charge. You can find coffee and hot cocoa, for a donation, there Monday through Friday on the south side of the square. For us old-timers, the building formerly housed the Connolly Hardware store and more recently Mason?s Hardware. Dad really looked forward to his twice-weekly visits there, where he also shared his homemade banana bread. The Central Park Community Center is another fine organization which Washington County is fortunate to have.

Our county is not as fortunate. Winnebago County lost its hospital nearly 20 years ago. It does not have a Lending Hands. It does not offer a Central Park Community Center. There is, however, a very fine hospice here, but it is 40 miles away.

We want the residents of Washington County to know how blessed they truly are.

Sandy and Carl Wagner