Finding a professional caregiver with whom you really connect is a blessing. Finding one that lasts for five years is monumental!
As we celebrate National Activity Professionals Week, we’d like to spotlight a client/caregiver team that has been together for more than five years!
Cathy Colbert has been caring for Walter Roemer since September 2007. The pair is one of two client/caregiver teams at Caring Hearts of Yorktown, VA, who are celebrating a half-decade together.
At the time he contacted Caring Hearts, Walter was receiving 24/7 care from an independent contractor. A widowed military veteran and a stroke survivor, Walter asked tough questions and was openly skeptical of the information provided. But a few days later, the family called to begin services.
Cathy was part of the original Caring Hearts team that complimented Walter’s 24/7 care, and the two quickly settled into a comfortable routine.
Walter never fails to bring a smile to the faces of those around him. He has a motorized chair, nicknamed Jazzy, and a long-haired dachshund, Ziggy, that help make his days easier. He and Cathy were even featured in the local newspaper for their participation in the local YMCA’s Senior & Caregiver Exercise Program!
In honor of this incredible relationship, the office staff of Caring Hearts of Yorktown took the celebration on the road. Cathy knew they were coming to honor the client and helped with the arrangements. What she didn’t know was that she would be honored as well!
The staff arrived with flowers, balloons, gifts and food to surprise both Walter and Cathy. Walter was quite surprised and touched by the recognition and attention. The food was a hit, too!
“We are so proud of our clients and the caregivers that we could not let it go unnoticed,” owner Gail Stathers said. “We are blessed to have other equally deserving caregivers who work daily to make our lives easier. What a true blessing.”