At Goodwin Lodge in Teulon, acting recreation co-ordinator Crystal Bergeron stands out for her hard work and dedication.

“I have the best job here. I get to plan activities and bring happiness into the lives of my residents — whether that be helping them care for a plant or going outside and feeding the birds or coming in early to cook them a bacon and eggs breakfast,” said Crystal, who started working as a recreation facilitator before taking her current term position in October 2020.

“I have 20 resident bosses I work for and they all know that. I am their voice, their assistant and, to some, I am their best friend.”

Throughout the pandemic, Crystal has found creative ways to keep residents and families engaged, such as a pumpkin-carving evening in the fall.

“Brown’s Corner Patch in Gunton donated all the pumpkins, so myself and a member from my team volunteered our time to watch daughters laughing and reminiscing with their mother. Another resident watched his son do all the work while he snacked on the treats, all while being safe and following protocols,” she said.

“We also were lucky to have iPads that we can offer FaceTime for families and friends. And for the families that don’t have FaceTime, we write letters or send pictures out by mail.”

Clinical resource nurse Angela Harding said Crystal takes residents’ best interests to heart at all times.

“Nothing is too much trouble for Crystal. Each and every one of our residents is at the forefront of Crystal’s mind. Lots of new activities have been taking place since Crystal started last year. She really is having a positive impact on our residents, and I know families appreciate her as well,” Angela said.

“I want Crystal to know that each and every one of the staff at Goodwin appreciate you and thank you for engaging and stimulating our residents in a positive way.”

Likewise, Crystal expressed appreciation for everyone she interacts with each day at Goodwin Lodge.

“I love the day-to-day interaction with my residents, families and staff. I love that my residents still want to live life to the fullest. I can be nutty and silly yet professional, like bringing in snow so we can have a good old snowball fight in the dining room or watching an 84-year-old talk into a fan like I did as a child,” Crystal said.

“I will truly be sad to leave in August when my position is up. Everyone who works at Goodwin Lodge is out-of-this-world amazing and I thank them all for their guidance and support during my time here.”