Staff pulls off impromptu birthday party for 103-year-old resident
Thursday, November 9, 2006 -- Natalie Miller
A resident’s 103rd birthday was a milestone staff at Pleasant Meadow Manor refused to overlook.

Hospitalized prior to his birthday, staff at the Norwood nursing home weren’t sure if Bill Prest would be home in time to celebrate his birthday Nov. 4. They scheduled a social hour and entertainment for the day just in case, says Karen Coulter, life enrichment supervisor at Pleasant Meadow. Bill did indeed arrive home in time for his birthday; however, his friends who planned the occasion came down with the flu and couldn’t attend.

“Because the man was 103 and he had no friends or family who could come that day, we knew it was his birthday and we felt it was very important that day didn’t go by without recognition,” says Kelly Hembruff, a registered practical nurse working the day of Bill’s birthday.

Staff purchased a birthday cake and invited a reporter from the local newspaper, the local reeve and a reeve contender to attend.

“He had a great day,” says Kelly. “He was smiling ear to ear.”

Karen is pleased with the initiative taken by activation staff and other employees working that day.

“Staff decided a party was in order,” says Karen.

“It really showed the whole purpose and belonging that the people here live it. It really shows they stand behind what they say. How they rallied together and did what they did was amazing.”