Moments of Truth are the essence of Victoria Healthcare Center. We have so many associates, volunteers, family & friends, doctors, and others who go out of their way to make someone’s day special. We are posting these special people on the walls of the facility and are pleased to share some of them with you here.

Lydia Te, Social Worker
On a Friday afternoon, as her colleagues prepared for the weekend, Lydia saw residents in need. Since the Recreational Director was absent that day, the much anticipated Bingo game was in jeopardy. Because there was nobody volunteering to direct the game and even though she had meetings and more paperwork to finish before leaving for the weekend, Lydia decided to push her plans back and call Bingo.

The residents probably did not realize their luck that one as caring as Lydia would make a small sacrifice causing her to stay late on a Friday afternoon. But, we at Victoria Healthcare Center do realize our luck for having Lydia here.

Anita Vera & Maria Villalba, CNA
One of the most challenging responsibilities is that of a Certified Nurses Aide (CNA). Their days are full and often heavy. Sometimes, in order to make sure the residents are taken care of, they sacrifice their lunch or break. Thus was the case on one afternoon for Anita and Maria. During their lunch break their assistance with a couple of residents was needed.

There was no hint of complaint or bother. Rather, both CNAs happily sacrificed their much-earned lunch time to help two sweet, dependent residents. Thank you Anita and Maria.

Melita Haroldson, Lucy Rodriguez, Lydia Te
Driving by someone homeless is one thing. Having someone enter the facility in need is another. A homeless gentleman was found near our facility recently. He needed to go to the hospital and he needed food. Sara, Melita, Lucy, and Lydia saw his need and took care of him. After providing food from the kitchen and arranging transportation, they pooled their resources and got enough to pay for his taxi fare to the hospital.

The man was visibly touched and expressed deep gratitude for their mercy. As is often the case with sacrifice … those that sacrifice often feel the most grateful.

Enrique Lemus, Maintenance Director
Enrique stripped and waxed a resident room, painted the walls, and washed the curtains in preparation for a new admission. So? That’s his job right?

During one especially busy week for Enrique, he was asked to do the impossible. And, he did it with a smile. At around 2:00 AM on a Thursday morning, Enrique came to the building to strip and wax floors in various rooms. He worked all night. Then, he was informed that a room needed to be stripped and waxed … and painted before noon the next day. Unfortunately, the room wouldn’t be available to work in until 9:00 PM that night.

So, after working from 2:00 AM to 5:00 PM, he returned Friday morning at 2:00 AM to make a room just right for a new resident and his family. The long hours for our staff and residents is one thing. Doing it because he takes ownership in the building and residents is another. Thanks Enrique.