What you should know…
At AccentCare, caring for others isn’t just what we “do.” It’s who we are, and that comes to life in the countless ways our 30,000 employees demonstrate our values of integrity, compassion and excellence. Our everyday interactions — with patients, clients and each other — lead to meaningful connections that last.
Celebrating a birthday and a better way of life
When AccentCare Hospice Care Consultant Meloney West met Richard “Dick” Miller, he was surviving on chips and crackers many days, living in a soiled recliner he didn’t have the strength to get out of, and regularly calling the local fire department for help with tasks like preparing his meals and helping him transfer to his wheelchair.
Recognizing that Dick could use AccentCare’s help, Meloney and her team worked with Dick to earn his trust and educate him on the benefits of transitioning to a nursing home. He made the move, with ongoing support from AccentCare’s Loveland, Colorado, Hospice team, and immediately began experiencing the quality of life he said he wanted. Dick quickly became a favorite resident among the nursing home staff — so much so that they teamed up with Meloney to surprise Dick with a birthday party.
Dick had mentioned to a nurse that his upcoming birthday might be his last. When asked what he wanted, Dick said, “A pizza, wings and cake!” The nursing home staff, Meloney and her team hosted the party, complete with all of Dick’s favorite things.
After the initial shock, Dick grabbed a slice of the pizza and shared how he had perfected his wing recipe when he was able to cook. He also revealed that he hadn’t had a birthday cake in at least 40 years since his mom died, and he cherished every bite.
“Meeting the patients and families is what fills my cup,” Meloney said. “The nursing home staff said they’d never worked with a hospice agency that went so above and beyond for one of their patients, and it was an honor to do so.”
Guided by our values
Patient stories like Dick’s are common at AccentCare thanks to our employees, who lead with compassion, act with integrity and commit to excellence. Caring for others is who we are, and we’re proud to bring comfort to our patients and clients, and their families and loved ones.
To learn more about our personalized care approach and services available in your area, contact your local AccentCare branch (opens in new tab).
