Finding meaning in life’s unexpected moments
By Colby Phillips, Chaplain This past week, I picked up a book by the philosopher and psychologist William James called “On Some of Life’s Ideals.” It’s about how life’s richest and most meaningful experiences often come from a place deep in the heart which may be overlooked or misunderstood by...
Still working from home? Set yourself up for success
As we continue to experience this prolonged state of working from home, I find myself terribly uncomfortable. Let’s face it, our homes are not necessarily equipped to be our workspaces, and we weren’t given much notice that our lives would be upended so dramatically, or for so long. If you’ve...
I’m at risk for COVID-19. How do older adults get care and stay safe?
While we all wish there was a solution to put an end to COVID-19, we are best served to begin adjusting our behaviors, expectations and lifestyle to acknowledge this pandemic will take time to manage and resolve. As we shift to a longer-term acceptance of our new reality, many patients...
Celebrations will look different, but focus should remain on safety
The Fourth of July typically means gathering with family and friends, firing up the grill and enjoying the unofficial launch of summer. Unfortunately, sometimes it also means an unexpected trip to the Emergency Department due to burns or other injuries. Although this year’s Independence Day celebrations may look different with...
#Independence means many things to many people
Independence Day means many things to many people. To some, it means the ability to remain at home independently. We are privileged to support that self-reliant Vermont spirit in several ways: Our Home Health team empowers folks to manage chronic illness or recover in the safety and comfort of home....
Help us welcome Rebecca Thompson, volunteer coordinator
Please join us in welcoming Rebecca Thompson, who joined us last week as volunteer coordinator. Rebecca, who is working with the Volunteer office’s Gracie Peirce and Charley MacMartin, joins us while Hospice Volunteer Coordinator Nancy Morse takes the summer off to spend time with her growing flock of grandchildren. Rebecca...
Respite House visits evolve in response to virus
Today, as always, there’s a calmness at the McClure Miller Respite House, as staff, volunteers, patients and families continue adjusting to the new normal prompted by COVID-19. Throughout this pandemic, our staff has helped residents maintain contact with family, friends and loved ones through FaceTime, Skype, Zoom — and...
Volunteer mask makers keeping our clinicians, community safe
Collaboration has always been key to our work in the community, but never more so than during this pandemic, when volunteers like Marion Valley have dedicated their time, talents and resources to crafting face masks for our team. We thank you Marion, and so many others, for pitching in to...
Claussen’s Florist, volunteers bring touch of spring to Respite House
COVID-19 was no match for tradition at the McClure Miller Respite House this weekend, when volunteers planted a massive donation of annual flowers from Chris Conant and Ali Conant LaPierre at Claussen’s Florist & Greenhouse in Colchester. Big thanks to Chris, Ali and Claussen’s for beautifying the Respite House landscape...