Mamie Moore arrived at Gainesville Health and Rehab on her 90th birthday in May 2013. Her family came from all over to surprise her with a birthday party in the conference room. She was surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren on this special day, barely noticing her new surroundings. She had come from the hospital for therapy after an illness.
Her daughter, Vernadette, has been very happy with her mother’s care over the past three years. She commented, “Whenever I take her out, after several hours she is anxious to ‘go home,’ back to her room at GHRC where she is so comfortable. She obviously feels very safe and secure here.”
Originally from Portsmouth, Virginia, which is home to a huge Navy base, Mamie naturally married a sailor at the age of 19. She had 10 children and worked very hard to raise them.
Vernadette recalls, “I remember when Mom worked at Caffe’s Bakery, going down there after school and getting scraps from the wedding cakes and other goodies. Mom worked there for many years packaging cakes and doing whatever else needed to be done.” At the same time she worked as a cook in a Chinese restaurant. “She earned a reputation around the neighborhood for her delicious chop suey,” Vernadette said.
Of course Mamie had to ‘run a tight ship’ to make it all work. All of the kids had a list of chores they were responsible for, with an extensive schedule posted for all to follow. Following the lead of the neighborhood kids, the children attended the Third Baptist Church in Portsmouth, although Mamie did not have the time to be actively involved.
After all the kids were grown up and gone, Mamie worked full time in the kitchen of a nursing home until she was no longer able to keep working. As a non-driver, Mamie always walked everywhere and she still has beautiful legs to show for it!
Following a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, the decision was made to move Mamie in with Vernadette here in Gainesville. She stayed with her daughter for over a year until she became ill and had to be hospitalized. After a few months of rehab, it was determined that this would be the best place for her to live.
Vernadette said, “Mom used to love to do word find puzzles. She still loves listening to music, especially upbeat songs. And she likes to watch television if someone else turns it on for her.” Vernadette visits almost daily since she has a flexible work schedule and lives nearby. She bathes her mom and often takes her out of the building. Mamie’s daughter, Devon, visits with her monthly. And granddaughter, Tracey, visits with her family about once a month.
“Mamie is happy here and doing well in her familiar surroundings. I am grateful to GHRC for her wonderful care. I have such peace of mind when I leave the building each day.” GHRC is happy to include Mamie as part of our family! We are so glad we have been able to get to know her better.
By Lynnette Esse, Activity Director
