Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

“Adopt a Grandparent” Afternoon

November 13, 2024

Some of our high school students from Cabrini Immigrant Services (CIS), Dobbs Ferry, NY decided to use their day off from school on November 5th and visit some of the residents at St. Cabrini Nursing Home. The students ‘adopted a grandparent’ for an afternoon. They had great conversations and enjoyed making different crafts with the residents.

It was a beautiful afternoon seeing the smiles on the residents and the gleam in their eyes as they shared stories about when they were young. Conversations included what it was like growing up without computers and cell phones. Some students couldn’t believe that some of the residents didn’t have TVs and phones when they were very young. The residents enjoyed listening to the students talk about all the different things they do with modern technology.

While discussing the different topics, the students helped the residents make a paper cornucopia and a small pumpkin. By the end of the program, the residents didn’t want the students to go home. In fact, they decided they wanted to adopt all of them.

The students enjoyed being at the nursing home so much that they are already planning a special Christmas program for the residents. They can’t wait to go back on December 23rd.

“Adopt a Grandparent” Afternoon

November 13, 2024

discussing the different topics, the students helped the residents make a paper cornucopia and a small pumpkin. By the end of the program, the residents didn’t want the students to go home. In fact, they decided they wanted to adopt all of them.

The students enjoyed being at the nursing home so much that they are already planning a special Christmas program for the residents. They can’t wait to go back on December 23rd.

A Memorable Day!

October 30, 2024

On Wednesday, October 23rd, the residents and staff of Cabrini of Westchester enjoyed a visit from the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart’s General Superior, Sr. Maria Eliane Azevedo da Silva and General Councilor, Sr. Gilda Mercedes Mendoza Argueta. Accompanied by Sr. Diane Olmstead, MSC, Provincial of the Guadalupe Province, Sr. Eliane and Sr. Gilda arrived in time to attend Mass that was celebrated in Cabrini’s chapel followed by lunch with the Sisters who are residents of the home. A veritable feast was enjoyed by those in attendance as well as lively and entertaining conversation.

After lunch, Sr. Eliane, Sr. Gilda and Sr. Diane made their way to visit the Cabrini Immigrant Services program located at a store front in Dobbs Ferry, NY, just a few minutes’ drive from the nursing home. As the Sisters arrived, a group of women fondly known as the “Knitting Group” were gathered around a table to greet and interact with the Sisters. The group meets weekly not only to work on improving their English, but sometimes, they knit various items such as blankets and face cloths which are then donated to local charities.

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After the adults left for the day, it was time for the Children’s Literacy Program! Several young ones from both pre-K and Kindergarten arrived ready to get to work creating a craft that was based on the children’s book, “Bad Apple,” by Edward Hemingway. The literacy program is intended to assist the children with their reading skills improving their English and exposing them to creative arts. Sr. Eliane and Sr. Diane helped the children with the craft project while Sr. Gilda made her own. Lots of fun and laughter were had by all in attendance!

Thank you Sr. Eliane, Sr. Gilda and Sr. Diane for a memorable day!

Cheers! To One Hundred Years!

May 30, 2024

On Friday, May 24th, Cabrini of Westchester held a festive celebration honoring its centenarians, 5 special women who are celebrating milestone birthdays this year. The esteemed honorees are: Anna Ciccone, 102; Sister Rose Golden, 100; Sister Margaret Hernandez, MSC, 100; Theresa Izzo, 100; and Helen Nathanson, 102.

Bonita Burke, Vice President of Operations and Administrator addressed the gathering of residents, staff members, family and friends: “On behalf of the Administration, Board of Trustees and Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we offer congratulations and well wishes to each of our centenarians as we celebrate a century of your utmost grace, strength and kindness. You’ve witnessed a lifetime of history, yet your spirit remains timeless. We celebrate your remarkable journey, honor your wisdom and anticipate more chapters in your extraordinary story.”

A blessing was offered by Pastoral Care Associate, Christina Tiesi, followed by a presentation from special guest, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. Senator Stewart-Cousins bestowed framed resolutions to each centenarian and said, “I am so happy to be here to say happy birthday to you all! I am proud to recognize each of you for having lived over 100 wonderful years and for allowing women like me to stand on your shoulders. We wish you God speed, continued good health and thank you for inspiring us with your strength, your stories and your wisdom.”

FOUNDATIONS of CATHOLIC HEALTH CARE LEADERSHIP

May 29, 2024

Spring 2024

Recently, five Cabrini Nursing Home Leadership staff successfully completed an eight-week formation course facilitated by the Catholic Health Association. The course was titled:

“Foundations of Catholic Health Care Leadership.”

The course was open to leaders in health care facilities throughout the United States. Cabrini Nursing Home has been participating in these courses over many years. We were delighted to have five Department Head Leaders participate in this year’s formation course from different areas of our Cabrini facility as follows:
• Kristen McCauley; Director of Therapeutic Recreation
• Mark Pohar; Director of Nursing
• Enrique Vargas; Director of Food Services
• Dr. Soodabeh Zolfaghari; Medical Director
• Cassidy Barnes; Director of Information Technology

Topics covered included:
• Leadership in Catholic Health Care
• Spirituality and Reflection
• Catholic Social Tradition
• Community Benefit; Catholic Social Tradition in Action
• Global Health
• Ethics and the Catholic Moral Tradition
• Culture and Identity
• Models of the Church
• Integration, Discernment and Human Flourishing

Our participants listened attentively and participated enthusiastically during each of these sessions. The subject matter was engaging, relevant and allowed each participant, no matter their background, experience or faith tradition the opportunity to learn and contribute in meaningful ways. Each session incorporated important opportunities for small group discussions. Cabrini leaders participated in our own small group, facilitated by Fr. Ron Galt from Mission Integration and Pastoral Care. These conversations proved to be very rich and meaningful. It was the hope and intention at the start of the course, to make clear to our participants that they would share their learnings and engagement with their teams and staff in their respective departments and areas of responsibility. The following contributions are from two of our leaders detailing just a few highlights of the learning:

“Understanding the essence of the human spirit is extremely important in the healthcare environment. Failing to acknowledge the unique needs of everyone may inadvertently harm their spirit. It is vital for healthcare workers to recognize and respect the diverse requirements of each person, as these needs play a significant role in shaping their spirit. The spirit, intrinsic to one’s identity, serves as a compass for happiness and well-being.” ~ Kristen McCauley, Director of Therapeutic Recreation

“This training matured me professionally and personally on so many levels. It allowed me to look around my everyday surroundings and ask myself; ‘How can I improve my everyday responsibilities and leadership of my staff?’ That motivated me and sparked a flame within me to motivate my staff as well. So, I decided to do a social experiment with my staff to see how I could motivate them. I told them about this course and mentioned a quote I saw that was meaningful to me; ‘Take a step to change a life.’
I asked them what they can do today to change a life at Cabrini. I gave them a task to come back and share how at the end of their shift, what they had done to change a life. To my surprise, they all came back with beautiful examples, from helping a resident to the elevator, to making sure that a resident was happy with their meal. Every day since, I have had staff coming to me to share their stories and to share with department colleagues to make sure our efforts are team centered in our seeking to change the life of a resident, visitor, volunteer or family member for the better.” ~ Enrique Vargas; Director of Food Services

It has been a joy to watch and encourage our department leaders to approach this learning opportunity with an open heart and a Mission and Values centered spirit. We look forward to more of our Cabrini leaders participating in the years to come.

Distinguished Honors at Cabrini of Westchester

January 25, 2024

Priteshkumar (Prit) Patel, Physical Therapist at Cabrini of Westchester, was presented with the 2023 Employee of Distinction Award from LeadingAge New York, part of a national association of 5,500 not-for-profit organizations. Mr. Patel graciously accepted the award from Karen Lipson, Executive Vice President of LeadingAge, on January 11, 2024 at a celebration held in his honor. This prestigious award is given to an employee who excels in their profession and who has served with distinction and made significant contributions to the betterment of services for the aged and infirmed.

While presenting the award, Ms. Lipson stated “I’m very pleased to present this award to Prit. I read the nominations for all the candidates and I was so moved by the letters of support recognizing Prit that I wanted to meet him in person and offer my sincere congratulations to him. I’m very inspired by your work, Prit, and I’m happy to be here.”

In his nomination letter, David Leyden, Director of Rehabilitation wrote the following: “Prit is one of the most talented physical therapists and human beings I have ever had the privilege of working with. His technical skills and competency as a therapist are outstanding and can only be matched by his unique vision and ability to see past any barriers or challenges a patient may present. He offers them hope and a chance at a better life than they are living. Prit meets his patients at their level and offers the just-right challenge every step of the way.”

At the reception, Bonita Burke, Vice President of Operations and Administrator stated, “Prit, you are loved by all and not a day goes by that I don’t receive positive feedback about you! You are a true inspiration!”

CABRINI of WESTCHESTER – Among the Very Best!

January 18, 2024

CABRINI of WESTCHESTER – Among the Very Best!

Cabrini of Westchester is proud to be recognized by Newsweek as part of its America’s Best Nursing Homes 2024 list. The award is presented by Newsweek in partnership with Statista Inc., a statistics portal and industry-ranking provider.

The list comprises the nation’s leading skilled nursing facilities in those 25 states that have the highest number of facilities according to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The ratings aim to provide families with a clearer view of the quality of care provided by nursing homes. A total of 750 top facilities in 25 states were ranked, including 58 of the over 610 nursing homes in New York State.

This comprehensive evaluation is based on five data sources: performance data, a national online survey that included thousands of peer recommendations, management of COVID-19, resident satisfaction, and accreditations.

“For fifty years, Cabrini of Westchester has provided high-quality, compassionate eldercare to countless individuals,” said Patricia Krasnausky, President and CEO. “Our inclusion on the 2024 Best Nursing Home’s list is a testament to the hard work and dedication that Cabrini’s team provides to the residents each and every day and we are honored to be recognized.

Welcoming the Advent Season with Blessings

December 13, 2023

On Wednesday, December 6th, the residents and staff of Cabrini of Westchester braved the cold weather at a brief prayer service for the blessing of the outdoor nativity scene. While the prayer service took place in the lobby, several individuals donned their hats and coats to witness Fr. Ron Galt, Vice President of Pastoral Care and Mission, sprinkle the beautiful crèche with holy water officially beginning the Advent Season.

Before processing with the Baby Jesus outside to the manger, Fr. Ron asked all present to extend their hands in prayer as he prayed the blessing. He then shared, “The display of the nativity scene is a very public sign that we are a Cabrini family rooted in faith. Anyone that drives by our grounds will see this as a sign of who we are. We gather in a spirit of blessing, hope and anticipation of the season of Christmas with light and promise of good faith.”

Ho! Ho! Ho! – Here Comes Santa!

December 13, 2023

St. Cabrini Nursing Home in Dobbs Ferry, NY, certainly has the ‘Spirit of the Season.’ Every floor and every unit are decorated for Christmas. There is a lot of excitement amongst the residents and the staff.

Kristen McCauley, the Director of Therapeutic Recreation, knew that there was one more thing that would bring great joy to the residents this season. Kristen invited the toddlers from Cabrini Immigrant Services (CIS) and their parents to go to the nursing home to meet Santa Claus.

On December 11th, the Rose Room was filled with residents eagerly awaiting the children’s arrival. The children were anxiously awaiting Santa’s arrival! Needless to say, the room was filled with great excitement.

The children entertained the residents with different Christmas songs. Right in the middle of Feliz Navidad, a special visitor appeared at the door! The children were so shocked to see Santa Claus!

Santa, a/k/a Al Lovell, nurse manager for 3 South, was magnificent. He read the story, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas to the children. He had special gifts for all the children who assured him that they were good all year.

While having hot chocolate and cupcakes, the children visited with the residents and had some photo-ops with Santa. The residents left having smiles as big as the children. They all agreed that there is nothing like children to make the season bright.