The Power of Caring
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From L to R: Bob Speelman, Crystal Calhoun
October 10, 2018My journey as an STNA took me this week to The Merriman in Akron. The Merriman has 60 Skilled nursing beds and 53 assisted living apartments, and sits on a beautiful historic campus. I worked with Crystal Calhoun, an STNA at The Merriman, that has made a huge impact on the facility already, even though she’s only been there for less than a year. Crystal’s attitude, outlook, and presence are both positive and powerful. She is a natural born leader that makes everyone around her feel better.
Crystal told me she became a nursing assistant because her great grandmother in Georgia became diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and she wanted to learn more about it so that she could help others with the disease. Crystal has definitely found her calling, as you can tell from various comments from the residents at The Merriman:
“Crystal is there for me when I need her,” “Crystal’s attitude is amazing and she’s a naturally positive person,” “Crystal is like family to us. She cares for us and always smiles,” and “Crystal is thoughtful and considerate, she really cares for us.”
Crystal has two children- a son who is eight years old, and a daughter who is four. Crystal told me she wants to further her education and become a nurse. I have no doubt that Crystal will do this. I hope we are lucky enough to keep Crystal within the Foundations Family.
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” -- Leo Buscaglia
I am so glad I had the opportunity to work alongside Crystal and witness one of our finest caregivers and leaders in action. Our future is bright as a company with leaders and caregivers like her! Thank-you Crystal, you are an inspiration. You are making a difference.
Bob Speelman, STNA
Merriman Website