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A P U B L I C A T I O N O F C H R I S T I A N H E A L T H C A R E C E N T E R
C H R I S T I A N H E A L T H C A R E
ADULT DAY SERVICES
Profiles of Caring
W I N T E R 2 0 0 9
W A Y N E W Y C K O F F
TO THE COMMUNITYMESSAGE
Christian Health Care Adult Day Services celebrated its 20th anniversary in the fall. To date, this essential
component of Christian Health Care Center’s (CHCC) elder-care program has fulfilled the medical and social needs of thousands of
seniors living in Bergen, Passaic, and Morris counties.
Christian Health Care Adult Day Services offers high-quality medical care, nutritional services, activities, social services, pastoral
care, and personal-care services in a safe, friendly, and pleasant environment. A dedicated staff with years of geriatric experience provides
these services with compassion and concern. Consequently, staff, clients, and their caregivers become one extended family.
When CHCC began providing elder care in 1957, senior services in the U.S. basically consisted of one option: long-term care.
Advances in technology and medicine, combined with increased health-care research and knowledge, have resulted in dramatic changes
in the senior population. By 2030, about 70 million Americans will be 65 and older.
This expanding population has various needs. Today, Christian Health Care Adult Day Services complements the Center’s
continuum of elder-care services: Heritage Manor Nursing Home, The Longview Assisted Living Residence, and, for independent seniors,
Hillcrest Residence and Evergreen Court. The Center hopes to expand its services in
the future through The Vista, a proposed continuing-care retirement community.
If you, a friend, or a loved one would benefit from Christian Health Care
Adult Day Services, please don’t hesitate to call for more information or to arrange
a personal tour. The Wyckoff number is (201) 848-5829 and the Wayne number is
(973) 305-9155. You can also visit www.chccnj.org for information about all the
Center’s programs.
We are thankful for the growth of our programs and the opportunity to fulfill
the needs of the community throughout our nearly 100-year history. With God’s
grace the Center will continue its journey of caring into its second century of service.
DOUGLAS A. STRUYK, CPA, LNHA
President and CEO
SANDRA DE YOUNG, EdD
Chair, Board of Trustees
“I was a patient in your Post-acute Care Unit after open-heart surgery. I wantedto let you know that I had the best care anyone could ask for in my situation –
the best! All the help was superb. The staff was very concerned about my safety and
care everyday. They diligently worked with me to regain my quality of life. I wanted to
let you know what quality of care your employees are giving to patients.”
Mary Rowe
ACCOLADESAND ANNOTATIONSis published by theMarketing Department ofChristian Health Care Center.
DOUGLAS A. STRUYK, CPA, LNHAPresident and CEO
CARLA DEWITTVice President, Marketing
KAREN P. HOCKSTEINEditor
Director, Publications
MELANIE E. ANTHONYDirector, Marketing
MaryKudla:YoungatHeartAt 83, Mary Kudla has yet tobecome a senior citizen.“My mom always loved and cared for the elderly,” says
her daughterMarion Velechko ofWayne. “She had a friend
who was four years her senior and mom would always
say, ‘I’m taking care of my senior friend today.’ I’d reply,
‘Mom, just how old are you?’ She would smile and wink.”
Mrs. Kudla brings her youthful exuber-
ance to Christian Health Care Adult
Day Services of Wayne, where she
recently celebrated her one-year anniversary
with the program.
Mrs. Kudla and her husband William have
been married for 63 years and have lived in Wayne
for more than 50. They worked together at Kudla
Florist Supplies, the family business in Passaic.
About seven years ago, Mrs. Kudla was diagnosed
with Alzheimer’s disease. Over time, the Kudlas
six children felt that their parents would both
benefit from an adult day services program.
“They still live in their own home,” Mrs.
Velechko says. “Mom needed more socialization
and dad needed some time for himself.”
Using the Internet, Mrs. Velechko researched
programs in the area and discussed the possibili-
ties with her siblings.
“Christian Health Care Adult Day Services
was our no. 1 choice,” she says. “Its vision
and values are most high. The program offers
quality care in a compassionate and loving
environment. The building is safe and well-
maintained. The staff is wonderful and very
caring to seniors and caregivers.”
The transformation in both parents was
evident fairly quickly after Mrs. Kudla began
attending the program three days a week. The
siblings all agree that their parents are both
more relaxed and that being on a routine sched-
ule has helped with Mrs. Kudla’s care needs.
“We are extremely pleased with the
program,” Mrs. Velechko says. “My mother is
charming and pleasant. She is and always has
been a beautiful woman inside and out. The
adult day services staff recognizes her
as the special person that she is.”
PROFILES OF CAR ING
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ifeHealth and NutritionHealth monitoring and propernutrition can help seniors enjoy lifeto the fullest. These are two vitalcomponents of Christian HealthCare Adult Day Services.
Comprehensive medical services areprovided by the program’s Nursing Directors– Marie Lemme, RN, in Wyckoff and LoisSchuurman, RN, in Wayne. Among their manyresponsibilities, the nurses, all with extensivegeriatric experience, coordinate physicalassessments, diagnostic tests, and consulta-tions; monitor vital signs; administer medica-tions; monitor medical conditions, such asdiabetes; coordinate written care plans;recommend and schedule appointments withconsultants, such as ophthalmologists andpodiatrists; and consult with the client’s per-sonal physician, when necessary. A medicaldirector and pharmacy consultant comple-ment the nurses’ professional services.
“The medical team’s goal is proactivewellness,” Mrs. Lemme says. “We strive tokeep clients as healthy as possible so theycan maintain maximum independence.”
Improving and maintaining clients’nutritional status supports this goal. Joan Katz,RD, Nutrition Services Director, conducts adietary assessment for every client uponadmission and every three months thereafter.
Weight history, medicalconditions, food aller-gies, blood tests, dentalstatus, etc. is monitoredand used to develop anutritional care plan.
“This could includerecommending a differ-ent diet, adding a nutri-tional supplement, orusing multivitamins,”Mrs. Katz says.
Clients are servedone hot meal and two
snacks. While the entree, vegetable, andstarch selections are all the same for eachclient, preparation varies according toindividual dietary needs.
The staff strives to make dining enjoyablebecause, Mrs. Katz says, “Meal times not onlyprovide physical benefits, but psychologicaland social ones as well.”
Christian Health CareAdult Day ServicesLet Us Share the Care
Our goal: Christian Health Care Adult Day Services of Wayne and Wyckoff helps seniorsmaintain independence and improve their quality of life by bringing together health, social,and support services in a secure, pleasant, and compassionate environment.
Our clients: Clients are typically individuals who live alone or with family and have aphysical or cognitive impairment, are socially isolated, need assistance with personal care,and/or require minimum assistance to function independently.
A group program with individualized care: An individualized care plan, with inputfrom the client’s personal physician, is developed upon admission so seniors receivethe maximum benefit from the program.
Our team: The multidisciplinary team includes registered nurses, certified nurse aids,social workers, a dietitian, activities professionals, and a chaplain.
We’re listening: Through the monthly Client’s Council, individuals are invitedto participate in the decision-making process which affects the quality and quantityof services.
Safety first: Safety mechanisms and environmental features ensure that clientsreceive individualized attention and proper care. Stickers on client photo-identificationbadges, for instance, provide medical information to staff: a red dot means a person issusceptible to falls and a blue dot indicates an allergy to food and/or medicine.
Hours: The program is open to clients from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.(The staff is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Some clients attend the program five daysa week; others two to three days.
Transportation: Door-to-door transportation on wheelchair-accessible vans is providedfor all clients living in the designated pick-up areas.
For more information: Call (973) 305-9155 for Wayne details and (201) 848-5829for Wyckoff information.
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“Myeyesight isn’t what it used to be, but
other than that, I really can’t complain,”
Mrs. Caraccia says.
Perhaps her background in health care
has contributed to her longevity and well-being.
A registered nurse by profession, Mrs. Caraccia
was a town nurse in North Arlington and a staff
nurse at Hackensack University Medical Center
before becoming a freshmen nursing instructor
at Felician College in Lodi.
“I considered going back to school for a
master’s degree in nursing but then I decided
to retire,” says Mrs. Caraccia, who had lived
in Lyndhurst with her husband.
Years later, after her husband passed away
and her eyesight started to fail, Mrs. Caraccia
moved to Ringwood to live with her daughter,
Beth Cramer, and her family. Counted among
Mrs. Cramer’s friends is fellow Ringwood resident
Patricia Elliott, RN, Administrator of Christian
Health Care Adult Day Services of Wyckoff.
“I wasn’t looking to join an adult day services
program but Beth felt it would be a great way for
me to get out of the house. I was very active before
my eyesight started to fail. I thought about Beth’s
suggestion and realized that by joining the program
I could be active again. I had heard great things
about Christian Health Care Adult Day Services
and I knew Pat, so it was a natural choice,” Mrs.
Caraccia says. “I also benefit from having my
sugar levels monitored while I’m at the program
since I have diabetes, which was diagnosed when
I was 90. It’s comforting to know that the staff
can handle an array of medical issues.”
Mrs. Caraccia started attending in 2007.
Initially she came two days a week. Recently she
added a third.
“I was a bit lonely when I went to live with my
daughter because no one is home during the day,”
Mrs. Caraccia says. “Now I don’t feel lonely anymore.
The staff and clients are wonderful. I’m active again,
and I’ve made new friends.”
PROFILES OF CAR ING
VirginiaCaraccia:
PerfectingtheArtofAgingWith little assistance, Virginia Caraccia climbs the steps
to enter a meeting room at Christian Health Care Center.
Her graciousness, humor, and optimism are noted by
employees and visitors that she’s encountered along the
way. No one, however, can believe that she is 93. She has
truly perfected the art of aging.
“The goal is to provide clients with meaningful activities that stimulate,
educate, and entertain,” says Laurie Cochran, Activities Director/Assistant
Administrator for the Wayne program. “A good activities program allows
clients to feel part of a group while stimulating the mind and body.”
State and federal regulations dictate that social, spiritual, physical,
cognitive, and community-based events must be offered. Among its many
activities, Christian Health Care Adult Day Services offers exercise, craft workshops,
sing-alongs, pet-therapy visits, gardening, word and board games, religious programs,
off-site trips, theme dinners, and current-affairs discussion. The roster
is developed based on the strengths, interests, and function level of
the clients. Likes and dislikes, and past and present interests are
determined through initial assessments with each client.
“New activities based on clients’ interests and abilities are added
constantly. Activities are removed when clients no longer respond to
them or enjoy them,” says MJ Paulison, Activities Director/Assistant Administrator for the
Wyckoff program. “Most clients consistently enjoy music, exercise, trips, word games,
and bingo. These are the basics, but I find that the seniors really enjoy trying new things.”
Clients are never pressured into participating. New clients and those who tend to be
shy generally respond favorably to encouragement from staff and peers. The general
rule is to make clients feel comfortable, secure, and respected.
Says Ms. Paulison, “Seniors respond to – and deserve – our respect.”
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A T C H R I S T I A N H E A L T H C A R E C E N T E R A D U L T D A Y S E R V I C E S ,A C T I V I T I E S F O R T H E BOD Y, M I N D , A N D S P I R I T H E L P S E N I O R S R EM A I N I N D E P E ND EN T A NDI N V O LV E D I N T H E WOR L D A R O UND T H EM .
ELDER-CARE PROGRAMS, such as adult day services, can helpseniors remain at home rather than living in a long-term care facility, wheredaily rates can be four times as expensive as adult day fees. Additionally,costs for adult day services can be supplemented by several financial-aidresources. Most have income guidelines. For more information on thefollowing programs, contact the Christian Health Care Adult Day Servicessocial workers: Amanda Zunick, LSW, in Wayne at (201) 848-5154 orKerri Sherer, LSW, in Wyckoff at (201) 848-5830.
>> Medicaid programs are funded by the State of New Jersey and areusually administered through the Board of Social Services of eachcounty or by the state Department of Health. Medicaid pays formedical care only (no monthly assistance check) for people 65 andolder, as well as individuals of any age who are blind or disabled.
>> Global Options for Long-term Care enable nursing-homeeligible individuals to remain at home by providing a package ofhome-care/community services, such as adult day services.The program is administered by county offices for the CommunityCare Program for the Elderly and Disabled.
>> The New Jersey State Gerontology Program will subsidize anadult day services client two to three days per week. Clients areresponsible for a small co-pay.
>> Jersey Assistance for Community Care is a state-funded programfor individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid. Although clinically eligi-ble for a long-term care facility, individuals can remain at home withprograms such as adult day services.
>> County Respite-care programs provide funds for caregivers so theymay access services which would give them a “break” from caregiving.
Financial Resources
Pet therapydog Halle
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“Our father is a very social person,”
says Nancy Lindstrom of Wayne,
one of Mr. Elm’s three daughters.
“He truly enjoyed being a politician and all the
life lessons he learned from being one.”
In addition to his public service, Mr. Elm,
85, owned an auto-parts store in Paterson with
his father and raised three daughters in Wayne
with his wife Marilyn. After his wife passed away,
Mr. Elm moved to Naples, FL, for a few years
before heading back north and moving in with
daughter Rosanne Buckley of Wayne.
“Over time we realized that he needed
stimulation from activities and socialization to help
with his cognitive skills,” Mrs. Lindstrom says.
The search for an appropriate and
satisfactory adult day services program was
concluded quickly.
“We didn’t look at any other facilities.
I saw the Christian Health Care Adult Day
Services sign when I was driving and decided
to stop one day. I got a very warm reception
when I walked in. Amanda Zunick, LSW, the
social worker, gave me a tour and I was very
impressed,” Mrs. Lindstrom says. “My sisters
and I reviewed materials that Mrs. Zunick gave
me. We liked the mission statement. That was
very important to us. And the program matched
what we wanted for our father.”
Since April, Mr. Elm has attended the
program three days a week.
“The first day or two dad came home a
little uncertain about the program,” Mrs. Buckley
says. “That didn’t last long. Now he comes home
happy. Christian Health Care Adult Day
Services has had such a positive
impact on him.”
PROFILES OF CAR ING
TomElmJr.:ATrueGentlemanTom Elm Jr. knows how to “work the room” at Christian
Health Care Adult Day Services of Wayne. As a former
Wayne Township Council President and Paterson Parking
Authority Commissioner, he values courtesy, gratitude,
and graciousness.
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Social ServicesCounselor. Coordinator. Educator.Liaison. Advocate.
Amanda Zunick, LSW, and Kerri Sherer, LSW,fulfill many roles as the Christian Health CareAdult Day Services social workers for Wayneand Wyckoff, respectively. They provide clientand family counseling; facilitate supportgroups; oversee case management; andprovide information on a tremendous range oftopics, from financial resources to long-termcare planning. Their greatest responsibility,however, is making a good first impression,since the social worker is often the first staffmember that potential clients and caregiverseither speak with on the telephone or meetwith when they visit for the first time.
“Our goal is to explain the dynamics of theprogram while also alleviating fears andaddressing concerns,” Mrs. Zunick says.
The social worker assists the Nursing Directorsin conducting an intake evaluation to gathermedical, psychosocial, and personal informa-tion from the client and caregiver. Next, thesocial worker makes a home visit, which ismandated by the state, to observe the client inhis/her home environment. There is no formalreport to the state, but the social worker pro-vides written recommendations to the clientand caregiver on how to make the environmentsafer, such as by using a shower chair.
Clients and caregivers are always welcometo meet with or call the social worker withquestions or concerns about any issue.
“A caregiver may want to learn how to copewith the aging of a parent. A client may beconcerned about living in a child’s house,”Mrs. Zunick says. “Both need a chance to talkabout their fears and anxieties.”
Pastoral CareAt Christian Health Care Center (CHCC), a person’s faith is affirmed,
strengthened, and nourished as an aid in health care. This belief is an
important component of the multidisciplinary model of care provided in
all CHCC programs, including Christian Health Care Adult Day Services.
“I am here to provide spiritual nourishment through Bible study, prayers,
hymns, reflection, discussion, and laughter,” says Rev. Kathy Jo Blaske, who serves as
Chaplain for adult day services, as well as The Longview Assisted Living Residence,
Hillcrest Residence, and Evergreen Court. “I try to engage the clients’ minds and
hearts and to reflect upon God’s goodness.”
Through the Chaplain’s Hour Rev. Blaske seeks to fulfill the seniors’
religious and spiritual needs. She developed her program partially by observing
her predecessor, Rev. William Faulkner, DMin, interact with clients.
“I saw how easily he related to the seniors. They loved to laugh with him,
so I always try to bring laughter to the Chaplain’s Hour,” Rev. Blaske says. “I enjoy
music, so I sing hymns with them. Singing is a natural method of therapy because
even people with dementia have memory. Some hymns come naturally to them
so it’s comforting. I also enjoy sharing Bible stories and discussing art that has a
Biblical theme.”
Rev. Blaske is as enriched by the seniors as they are from her.
“I really enjoy their eagerness to keep on growing spiritually,” she says. “They
have a contagious enjoyment of each day that God has given to us. They express
thanksgiving so easily. It really is a mutual blessing to serve among them.”
“I try to engage the clients’ minds and hearts andto reflect upon God’s goodness.”
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AnnieSciacca:
AWorldofExperienceAthlete. Pastry chef. Interior designer.Annie Sciacca has excelled in many pursuits throughout her 94
years. Archery, softball, boxing, and figure skatingwere someof
her sports of choice as a child and young adult. She segued into
gastronomy as a pastry chef andmanager at Egidio Pastry Shop,
whichwas foundedby her grandfather in theBronx in 1912. Later
in life she became an interior designer.
PROFILES OF CAR ING
“Because she was an interior designer she
loves to get dressed beautifully every
day,” says her daughter Kathleen Hart.
“Spending time coordinating her outfits is very
important to her. She is always manicured,
well-groomed, and quite the fashionista.
Everyone at Christian Health Care Adult Day
Services of Wyckoff looks forward to seeing
what she is wearing.”
Mrs. Sciacca joined the adult day services
program three years ago when she came to live
with Mrs. Hart and her husband Al in Ho-Ho-Kus.
“She attends four days a week,” Mrs. Hart
says. “Tuesday is her day off and our time to
take care of doctor’s appointments, beauty-parlor
pampering, and, of course, new places to explore
for lunch.”
Mrs. Hart learned about Christian Health
Care Adult Day Services through her sister-in-law,
who taught in Wyckoff for many years.
“As a psychological counselor, I believe that
the physical, emotional, and spiritual components
to wellness are critical for success in caring for the
elderly,” Mrs. Hart says. “I chose Christian Health
Care Adult Day Services because of this approach
and because of its outstanding reputation for quality
care provided by a very dedicated and loyal staff.”
The benefits of the program were
soon evident.
“The greatest benefits for mom are the
diversity of the daily scheduling and the caring,
loving staff. They all go above and beyond. They
are to be commended for their time, patience,
and loving care. They are like family to us. I feel
confident and assured that mom is in good hands
when she is there,” Mrs. Hart says. “The pro-
gram’s greatest benefits for me are knowing that
mom is being treated with respect and dignity and
that the quality of her life is being enhanced by her
presence at adult day services. She comes every
day and says, ‘Everyone there is so wonderful to
me!’ What else could a daughter want?”
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Book Chronicles Life of Late Resident
NJ TRANSIT:Partners in Caring
NJ TRANSIT helps provide an element critical to ChristianHealth Care Adult Day Services clients: access. The programhas received three vans from NJ TRANSIT, which purchased
the vehicles through federal grant money. Two additional vans willbe purchased for Christian Health Care Adult Day Services in thenext nine months.
“We are extremely grateful to NJ TRANSIT for its continuedsupport of Christian Health Care Adult Day Services,” says Douglas A.Struyk, CPA, LNHA, Christian Health Care Center President and CEO.“The availability of transportation to and from the program is often a keyfactor in whether or not an individual is able to attend adult day services.”
Christian Health Care Adult Day Services receives the vans throughSection 5310 of the Federal Transit Act, which provides funds for statesto purchase vehicles for private, non-profit agencies that provide specialtransit service for senior citizens and people with disabilities. Federalfunds pay for up to 80 percent of the vehicle, with NJ TRANSIT supplyingthe additional 20 percent.
Since the Section 5310 program began in 1975, more than 1,300vehicles have been purchased and delivered to non-profit organizations,counties, and municipalities in New Jersey.
HIGH MARKS Earned on State Survey
Christian Health Care Center (CHCC) received outstandingfeedback from the New Jersey Department of Health and
Senior Services on its recent annual licensure survey of HeritageManor Nursing Home and Southgate behavior-management unit.Surveyors noted that it was the best survey received by CHCC inthe past 10 years.
“Since we have had many good surveys during the past 10years, this outstanding feedback is even more encouraging andcause for celebration,” said Douglas A. Struyk, CPA, LNHA, CHCCPresident and CEO. “The staff of both of these programs made theseresults possible, and I am so pleased that the excellent care that isconsistently provided here was so highly regarded in this survey.”
The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Servicesconducts annual licensure inspections of the state’s approximately380 nursing homes. The surveys evaluate the fitness and adequacyof the facility, equipment, staff, policies, procedures, and finances.
ELDER-CAREBRIEFS
From left, Hugh Caffrey, Christian Health Care Adult Day Services ofWyckoff client; Patricia Elliott, RN, adult day services Administrator;Tim Sharpe, NJ TRANSIT Regional Program Administrator, LocalPrograms; Jeannine Trinchieri, adult day services client; and DouglasA. Struyk, CPA, LNHA, Christian Health Care Center President and CEO
The life of the late Gertrude Ederle, who resided at HeritageManor Nursing Home, is described in the recently published“America’s Girl: The Incredible Story of How Swimmer Gertrude
Ederle Changed the Nation,” by Tim Dahlberg with Mary Ederle Ward,Ms. Ederle’s neice, and Brenda Greene.
In 1926 Ms. Ederle became the first woman to swim the EnglishChannel. Her accomplishment inspired the country and turned her intoa national icon.
“The year she swam the channel she was voted more popular thanBabe Ruth, “Mrs. Ward Ederle says.
Ms. Ederle died in 2003 at age 98.“All of our residents, patients, clients, and consumers come to us
with life stories that have shaped their lives and the lives of others,” saysDouglas A. Struyk, CPA, LNHA, Christian Health Care Center Presidentand CEO. “This new book about Ms. Ederle is not only a special glimpseinto the life of this former resident, but also a reminder about the lifeevents that all of those we serve have behind them and define who theyare today. How blessed we are to have the opportunity to get to knowthem, be a part of their lives, and often ‘to make a difference and be theworld to them now.’”
IN STEPWITH
BETWEEN SUNDAYS:PASTORAL REFLECTIONS
It was the cry of the French in their revolution.Patrick Henry declared its importance before the
Virginia House of Burgesses in 1775. It is epito-
mized in the famous statue bearing its name as the
hopeful ones enter New York Harbor. It is the hallmark
of the year of Jubilee described in the Book of
Leviticus and connected to the concept of Sabbath.
From the beginning, common to humanity has
been the cry for liberty. We value the idea that individu-
als and societies need to experience freedom in order
to be at their best. We have all experienced things that
prohibit us from following through on our aspirations,
however, all of which oppose the value of liberty. Bad
government, tyrants, and discrimination are just a few
examples of oppressive factors that have placed limits
on our liberty in the past. What should be the response
of people of faith to such oppressive factors? In our
own history, the civil rights movement, woman’s
suffrage, sanctity of life, temperance, social reform,
and ecology movements have all had significant
involvement from the faith community. In all cases,
their actions sprung from a conviction that at the heart
of God’s justice is liberty and freedom to aspire.
Sometimes however, liberty, freedom, and
independence are limited not by harmful people,
but by natural causes. Often people are hampered by
illnesses, accidents, natural disasters, and everyday
burdens of life. Just as people of faith have rallied
around movements to turn around injustice so, too,
have they been at the center of relief efforts for every
natural disaster this country has experienced. Core to
our conviction at Christian Health Care Center is the
belief that it is a God-ordained right that every person
should have the opportunity and freedom to aspire to
the best they can be. Sadly, the aging process and
ageism, and mental-health issues and the attached
stigma are very real examples of oppressive factors
that limit the liberty of those we love, those we serve.
Fortunately, opportunities exist, such as Christian
Health Care Adult Day Services, to enhance, encour-
age, and facilitate the exercise of independence to
maintain a sense of liberty. As the concept is near to
our hearts, so it is to the hearts of those around us.
As we value our own liberty, may we work to secure
liberty for all those in need.
Liberty!By Rev. James Knol, LCSW, Director, Pastoral Care; Chaplain, Ramapo Ridge Psychiatric Hospital
Bertha Stronach is extraordinary, and that’s not the consensusjust at Christian Health Care Center. The Health Care
Association of New Jersey agrees. The organization recentlybestowed the Heritage Manor Nursing Home resident with its2009 Resident Better Life Award.
“Bertha is one of the most positive residents we’ve everhad,” says Peter Peterson, LNHA, Heritage Manor/Southgate VicePresident /Administrator. “She constantly initiates things to enhancethe quality of life for residents. She is an excellent advocate, isextremely articulate, and has great ideas.”
Ever since Ms. Stronach moved to Heritage Manor in late 2007she has created programs and made suggestions for the benefit of resi-dents and the organization. She started a weekly book club for residentsas well as a discussion group for higher-functioning residents in HeritageManor’s Dementia Care Unit. When 80 patients and residents movedwhen the Post-acute Care Unit relocated from Heritage Manor East toHeritage Manor West, Ms. Stronach wrote a program for a Welcome Social.
“Bertha’s enthusiasm and energy are contagious. She serves as thePresident of the Heritage Manor Resident Council. She brings concernsand suggestions from other residents to meetings and addresses themwith appropriate staff. She researches ideas for outside trips and guestspeakers that she thinks will be of interest to residents,” says AlisonArgott, Heritage Manor Activities Director. “Bertha also serves on theNeighborhood Project Team, a venture designed to give the nursing-homeunits a more neighborhood feel with a team approach to care. Becauseof Bertha’s advocacy efforts and positive attitude, the staff asked her tojoin the team.”
Ms. Stronach’s outgoing personality and multitasking ability mirrorsher professional endeavors. She enjoyed a 25-year career with IBM, firstas a secretary and then advancing through various positions to TrainingPrograms Manager. She traveled to IBM locations throughout the world,training secretaries and managerial staff. Upon retirement as a CertifiedProfessional Secretary and Past International President of the InternationalAssociation of Administrative Professionals, she formed her own trainingcompany and conducted seminars throughout the world. Ms. Stronachwas honored by the Republican Women in Industry for her accomplish-ments in industry, the arts, and community service and presented withthe Golden Plate Award by the American Academy of Achievement.
“Bertha,” Mr. Peterson says, “is truly a remarkable person.”
Role-model Resident
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Bertha Stronach
In memory of
Amelia BarteluceMary Anelauskas
Tania Branquinho and Daniel Nolan
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Campbell
CRC Management Co. LLC
Mr. and Mrs. Charles De Salvo
Kathy Di Trapano
Rose Ferrari
Jim and Carole Focht
Marie and Frank Gaudioso
Maureen and Peter Guglietta
Betty and Pete Johnson ^
Michael and Barbara Lansdowne
Paulette Mancuso
Tony May
Terri Monsour
Joseph A. Natoli Construction Corp.
Deborah Oropallo, Carol Oropallo,and Toni Clark
John and Janice Prato
Mr. and Mrs. S. Proodian
Joe and Michelle Sartori
Shawmut Design and Construction
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Slavinsky
Eva and Larry Tobias
Donald B. Posner and Marianne Treglia
Eugenia Ulasewicz
Mark Weisstuch
Barbara and Joseph Wygoda
Zack Painting Co.
Stephen and Sara Zrike
Nicholas M. BruiningWillard E. Marcley #
Mr. and Mrs. John Troast
Mary CarlsonLouis and Sheila Montanti ~
Judee Mulvey ~
Michael and Angela O'Koren ~
Torsten and Heidi Schwake ~
Betty Von Dreele and Joyce Spielberger ~
Irene V. CaseyJames C. Dallas ~~
Andrew K. ChunWilma Kohere
David Krentel
Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Van Grouw Jr.
Nellie De HaanLeonard and Arlene De Block
Joyce and John De Haan
Connie and John De Young
Marye Heatley
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Kuiken
Joan and Richard Kuiken
Jim and Kathy Lodema
John and Charlotte Meyer
Elisabeth Mowerson
Art and Shirley Stokes
Betty Tolsma
Judy Van Der Sluys
Lisa Verlardi, Diane Bachok, AnalinaValentin, Kate Wall, and Barry Feinberg
Robert EspelMickey and Bill Comis
Everett FaberBD Marketing Communicationsand Global Health
Herman and Betty Brandes
Mike Costabile
Paul and Alberta De Blaey
Donald and Joan De Bruin
John and Anita De Korte
Harold Dyer
Raeann and Garry Dykhouse
Mr. and Mrs. William Gerhardt
Wilma Kohere
Mr. and Mrs. Christian Kuiphoff
Jack and Dorothy Pearson
Bob and Jackie Pepper
Denise Ratcliffe
Mark and Pam Reitsma
Donald and Marilyn Sporn
Douglas and Vicky Struyk
Marie Teitsma
Gary and Joan Van Der Weert
Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Van Grouw Jr.
Arie and Kathleen Van Wingerden
Jessie and Dic Ver Hage
William R. and Jeanette FaberTheir children
John FicaEdna Fica
Bertha R. FortuinFlorence Van Harken-Clow
FOUNDATIONNOTEBOOK
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Honors, Memorials, and Church Gifts
The Christian Health Care Center Foundation acknowledges those who share inthe ministry of the Center by making contributions in honor or memory of individualsor occasions. The Center also deeply appreciates the ongoing financial support ofvarious churches.
The following contributions were received between July 1 and September 30, 2009.
Key
~ Adult Day Services ^ Employee Fund
# Annual Fund + Pastoral Care
~~ Christian Health Care Adult DayServices of Wyckoff
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HARVESTFEST:A TIME TO SAY THANKS
Christian Health Care Center celebrated its supporters duringHarvestfest. This year, the event was co-hosted by the Center andthe Foundation for Eastern Christian School Association (ECSA).Proceeds benefited the Center’s Good Samaritan Fund and theECSA Scholarship Fund, respectively. Anthony and PhyllisChernalis, and Herman and Marjorie Jeffer were lead supporters.
Harvestfest featured a bountiful feast donated by MarketBasket of Franklin Lakes and a performance by The McVeyFamily and Friends. J. Mark McVey, Christy Tarr-McVey, andLaurie Gayle Stephenson entertained the crowd in a showentitled Broadway and Beyond.
Laurie Gayle Stephenson, left, and J. Mark McVey, along withChristy Tarr-McVey (not pictured), entertained the crowd withThe McVey Family and Friends: Broadway and Beyond.
From left: Bill Haggerty, CPA, Marcon Foundation trustee andRidgewood Rotary Past President; Laura Cmielewski, ChristianHealth Care Center Foundation Corporate and FoundationRelations Director; and Wayne Brotherton of the Fred J. BrothertonCharitable Foundation
From left: Elmer and Roseanne Van Dalen of the Van DalenFoundation with Douglas A. Struyk, CPA, LNHA, Christian HealthCare Center President and CEO
From left, Douglas A. Struyk, CPA, LNHA, Christian Health CareCenter President and CEO; Tony and Phyllis Chernalis andMarjorie and Herman Jeffer, Harvestfest lead supporters; andThomas G. Dykhouse, Executive Director and Head of School,Eastern Christian School
Donna Dorsey, left,and James Carloughof the Clinton D.and Grace CarloughCharitable Foundation
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FOUNDATIONNOTEBOOK
David GallinaRay Dimetrosky
Donna and Oscar Krieger
Jean D. Martino
Bob and Gerry Saletta
Glenn D. GowerBAE Systems
Betty Gower
Gertrude IrwinGeorge Irwin Jr.
Ethel KauffmanMilford and Wendy Butler
Neale and Winifred Sweetman
Jasper KersbergenJohn L. Archibald
Thomas and Bernadette Bond
John and Eleanor Coleman
Ed and Josie Du Bois
Dick and Lorraine Freimuth
Hobbyists Unlimited
Gail D. Hofmann
Keewaydin Point Association
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kuehn
Betty and Darwin Ley
Mr. and Mrs. James Mc Gilvray
Juanita McClelland
Gerard and Marilyn Meyers
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Miller
Richard and Mary Ramge
Ingrid KmackMargit Goocey
Nellie KunisBetty Gower
Frank C. LawtonAnn and Joe Hovan
Joseph F. MatuleEvergreen Court residents
Tom and Frances Gaylord
Anne and Eddie Gerson
Marion Klingen
Mr. and Mrs. Orlando
Sophia G. MatuleMr. and Mrs. Orlando
John A. Mc AnaLisa Dumas
Margaret G. Mc Ana
Elisabeth S. Mowerson
Marie F. Smith
John NakashianKaprelian Carpet & Flooring +
John and Jayne Nakashian +
Nellie RozellAnn, Richard, and Jessica Meyer
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Rozell Sr.
Marguerite Wemken
Jennie SpalinkEileen Gantz
Jim and Annette Stacer
Mr. and Mrs. Derk Stavinga
Mr. and Mrs. Colin Watson
Doris Zuidema
Jackie Zuidema
Helen Van GrouwDr. and Mrs. Anthony Van Grouw Jr.
Christian Vander GaagJoan and Jay Disler
Evergreen Court residents
Marion Klingen
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Miller
Marie Vander HaveDr. and Mrs. Anthony Van Grouw Jr.
Marie VroegindeweyBethany Reformed Church
Nancy Verblaauw
Janet WhiteGilda Bertelli
Patricia Bornstein
Mr. and Mrs. John Ciuppa
John and Lynn Hellmers
Ethel, Audrey, and Wayne Kilsey
A. Emily Betar Kosmenchuk
George and Therese Sabbath
Edith and Joseph WildebushJanet Hackbarth
In honor of
Alice FredericksIn honor of her birthday
Shirley Croucher
Joan and Richard KuikenIn honor of their 25th wedding anniversary
Phyllis Sweetman
Mr. and Mrs. Peter VerblaauwIn honor of their 70th wedding anniversary
Henrietta Verblaauw
Audrey WispelweyIn honor of her birthday
Genevieve Douma
Odette H. WoetzelKurt Woetzel
CHURCHGIFTSBethany Reformed Church
Christian Reformed Church ofMidland Park
Faith Community ChristianReformed Church
First Reformed Church ofHackensack
First Reformed Church ofPompton Plains
Grace United Methodist Church
New Life Ministries
Women’s Chapel Club of Green Pond
Why I work at CHCC
ED: Having served on the CHCC Board of Trustees from 1983to 1992, I saw and was inspired by the quality care given atevery level.
JD: It started as a way to supplement my income as an artist,but became so much more meaningful.
LS: God opened a door to this job when I least expected.
HS: One Sunday after church Clarence De Roo asked if Iknew of anyone who would be interested in a groundskeeperposition at the Center. The rest is history.
Most memorable experience
ED: Sharing nearly 100 years of great CHCC history with allnew employees during General Orientation each month andinteracting daily with Evergreen Court residents and enablingthem to maintain independence in their own apartments.
JD: Sharing business with pleasure. I've had the opportunityto share my art world with residents by doing two paintingdemonstrations for an activity.
LS: My involvement in the caregiving of a woman witha chronic, debilitating illness andwitnessing her strength and faith
along with the love and support of her family. Their positiveattitude and determination had a deep and lasting effect onus as a family.
HS: Sharing the births of our three daughters and fourgrandchildren with Lois
My inspiration
ED: Christian parents and a wonderful husband who taught mevaluable life lessons graced with contentment and a giving spirit
JD: Hearing stories of our residents and their families as webuild trusting relationships and remaining curious about theirlives and interests, past and present
LS: Aside from my husband and family, I am daily inspired andhumbled by the love, devotion and sacrifice I witness by thefamilies and caregivers of the clients and patients we servedespite huge challenges.
HS: Our clients, patients, and residents continually inspire meto be mindful of why we do what we do at the Center.
My proudest achievement
ED: Raising four children and enjoying grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who are all in a loving relationship with their God
JD: It isn't any achievement of my own, but I am humbled andgrateful for the way God has shown His grace and love to myfamily from generation to generation. We are compelled to
follow Him and try to live lives of service.
LS: Our marriage and raising our threeprecious daughters and enjoyingevery aspect of those blessings.
HS: Raising three daughters withLois and sharing each of their
achievements and theirlove for each other andtheir extended families.Watching them modelour family’s values tothe next generationis particularlyrewarding.
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CENTERPOINT
From left: Ethel De See, Evergreen Court Director, left, with daughters Jan De See, The Longview Assisted
Living Residence Receptionist, second from left, and Lois Schuurman, RN, Christian Health Care Adult Day
Services of Wayne Nursing Director, and son-in-law Hank Schuurman, Facilities Development Vice President
ChristianHealth Care Centergives thanks to God for His many blessings
during this most joyous season!
Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage
PAIDPermit No. 5
East Hanover, NJ
Christian Health Care Center (CHCC) purchasesmailing lists in an effort to communicate withcommunity members who may benefit fromreceiving our publications. We recognize thefact that some residents prefer not to receiveour materials. However, CHCC does not controlthe deletion of names from a purchased list.To reduce unsolicited third-class mail, go tothe Direct Marketing Association website atwww.dmachoice.org.
