A couple of months ago, I pulled into the parking lot of Sedona Winds Independent Living on my way to visit my mom, and I broke down crying. I couldn’t get out of the car. In an effort to keep Mama “independent,” I had been taking on more and more responsibility in caring for her. As I sat there crying, I prayed, “Lord, I don’t want to be a caregiver, I want to be a daughter.” The next day, I decided to call Sedona Winds Assisted Living and start the conversation of transitioning Mama over there. Teri Cohen was so helpful in guiding us in that direction. There was a certain type of apartment we were hoping for, so my sister and I put Mama on the waiting list, and set up a date for a tour. We had no time frame for the transition, but we decided that when that type of apartment opened up, that would be the sign that it was time for the move.
During the tour, Mama, my sister, our aunt (Mama’s sister), and I were shocked to learn that the “perfect” apartment had just become available four days earlier. We were amazed. At the end of the tour, we all sat down with Teri as she explained the move-in process and all the services that are available to support Mama. She said, “Our goal here at Assisted Living is to do all the work for you so that you don’t have to be caregivers, just be daughters.” I teared up when she said that. It was an answer to the prayer that I prayed a month earlier!
Fast forward to today, Mama has been in her new apartment for a month, now, and she is settling in. She loves the way they let her know when it is time to go to activities, she is making new friends, and staying very active. She says she is happy there and feels safe. And, as for me, I am learning to let go and am having quality time with Mama. I am amazed at how wonderful all the staff are. They all know who my mom is and they love her. You can tell that staff members love their jobs and they love the residents. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart to all of you! I highly recommend Sedona Winds Assisted Living!
by: Carol's daughter Kathleen