In recognition of National Nursing Home Week, Windsor Manor Nursing Facility held a gospel fest and community cookout Saturday.
The Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office, Windsor Manor and local small businesses sponsored the event under the theme “The Spirit of America.”
Nursing staff and residents at the facility sat outside under tents to enjoy the day’s events with family and friends. Local artists showed off their talents, while providing their support for the event.
Activity Coordinator Jeanette Conyers said that the community has been supportive for the entire week.
“It has been an extremely fun week,” said Conyers. “I can’t believe how much the community gets involved with our facility here. It’s very nice.”
Nurse Lydia Jackson, who has been an employee for two years at the nursing home, sat in the nurse’s station finishing notes and overseeing residents.
“I have really enjoyed seeing how much fun the residents have had this week and how they have been enjoying the activities,” said Jackson. “The residents have responded very well to each day’s planned activities. As you can see, they are lining up ready to go outside for the grand finale.”
Though it was the end of the week, which meant the end of National Nursing Home Week, the spirits of residents, nurses, family members and sponsors remained high. Local talent, sponsors and volunteers kept music and food flowing throughout the evening.
“I am very happy here; this is the best place in South Carolina,” said resident Cynthia Rigdon. “We play Bingo and have so much fun, and I love Ms. Jeanette. I am just having the best time.”
Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Kenneth Clark was a guest speaker at the event. He praised the staff at the home for the care they gave to his late father.
“It is a pleasure for me to be here, because my father was a resident here up until January when he passed,” he said. “I have been so satisfied with the way my father was treated by the staff.
“They go above and beyond with the quality of care they give to the residents. I only have good things to say about the staff and the administration here. And I’m honored to be here today to stand in for Sheriff Tim Baxley.”
Some of the entertainers at the event included the Sisters of Faith; the Sumter Violinaires; the Ever Ready Gospel Singers and the Hill Boys of Sumter.
The Lost Angels Foundation manned the grill for the evening.
