More than just working together

Newton - The employees of Barn Hill Care Center in Newton develop personal relationships with the residents, as exemplified by two Certified Nursing Assistants, Sandy Hallowich and Stephanie Wilke. Stephanie Wilkes CNA has developed a very close relationship with resident Margaret Broderick. Whatever Margaret needs, Stephanie works to get it for her. “I love Margaret like my own grandmother,” she says. “ Although Margaret has trouble communicating with others, we just connected somehow and have become very close.” Stephanie has purchased numerous gifts for her friend, including clothing, food, even bedding. When Broderick broke her hip, Stephanie visited her in the hospital every day. “Margaret is just very special to me. It’s hard to explain my feelings for her. I just love her so much.” Sandy Hallowich says she just “fell in love with” resident Shirley Current when she worked on her unit. Even though she now works on a different unit, Sandy still keeps in close contact. Recently, the two enjoyed an extended outing. Sandy picked Current up for a shopping trip where she helped her older friend select two new outfits, and of course, accessories and shoes to complete the outfits-all of which Sandy paid for herself. They enjoyed lunch at Kentucky Fried Chicken, and later returned to Sandy’s home for a barbeque and visiting with Sandy’s children and family dogs. My kids have adopted her like another grandmother,” says Sandy. “I like my job,” says Sandy, “The best part is that I get to take care of people.