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Residents' stories steal the show at the
Grand Opening of PWL Lac La Biche

October 9th, 2018

Even though Points West Living Lac La Biche began welcoming residents back in June, the community held its official ‘grand opening’ on September 27. Two current residents shared their impressions of life at PWL Lac La Biche, and their heartfelt speeches were the highlight of the event.

A beautiful big welcome

It was a gorgeous clear fall morning, and about 80 people joined in the celebration. PWL Lac La Biche residents, family members and employee care partners welcomed honoured guests from the local area and the PWL-Connecting Care Home Office in Edmonton. Each resident, employee care partner and invited speaker received a fresh corsage or boutonniere.

Core supporters speak

The formal program included speeches of welcome and congratulations from several representatives of health, government, and business organizations that contributed to the creation of PWL Lac La Biche. They included a representative of Lac La Biche County, an official with Alberta Health Services, Canalta (the builder and part owner of PWL Lac La Biche), the Lakeland Health Advisory Council, Alberta Seniors Communities and Housing Association (ASCHA), the PWL Community Mentor, and General Manager Debbie Menard. The two residents capped off the speeches.

"I prayed about where I should move..."

Resident Germaine Cadieux (centre) was up first. She moved in to PWL Lac La Biche in early July and says she has never regretted her choice. “I prayed about where I should move to at this time in my life,” she said, “and the Lord found this place just in time, so here I am! I am so fortunate to live here. The staff are so friendly and helpful. They take time to listen to our concerns and they do their best to help when we need it, this community truly feels like home.”

Always looked after

Vernie Mosich (left) spoke next. “If you wish to know about us and if your mother or father would like to live here, well I can tell you it is very good,” she said. “While living here I have improved a lot and am doing a lot on my own. The people here are very good at taking care of you especially as I cannot walk. You know if you need help it is always looked after. I have made friends here and the girls (employee care partners) are like friends and family. They are dependable and there for you.”

Gigantic scissors

The ribbon cutting ceremony was the final part of the program (see photo). GM Debbie Menard wielded a gigantic pair of scissors like a pro and did a smooth cut of the ribbon, to everyone’s applause.

Food and tours

Following the formal program, guests and residents enjoyed visiting around the kitchen team’s irresistible selection of finger foods, and many guests enjoyed personalized tours of the building and grounds.

Photo: (from left) Residents Vernie Mosich and Germaine Cadieux share their thoughts about living at PWL Lac La Biche, while GM Debbie Menard looks on.

More photos at Flickr: Residents steal the show for the Grand Opening of PWL Lac La Biche

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