Lakewood resident Betty Delong, seated, releases a butterfly, which lands on her wrist. Helping Delong is Tanya Dixon, director of Nursing at Lakewood, and Ron Cunningham, right, Northern Light Home Care & Hospice chaplain, as Dixon’s husband, Stephan Dixon watches, standing in back. Submitted photo
WATERVILLE — There were smiles and expressions of wonder and delight Sept. 12, as residents and staff at Northern Light Continuing Care, Lakewood released a few dozen butterflies to symbolize the joy of living.
The event was a collaboration between Lakewood and Northern Light Home Care & Hospice.
Sue Beane, a Lakewood resident, delights in releasing her butterfly. Submitted photo
Residents participated in a short ceremony of singing and readings before heading outside to release the butterflies in Lakewood’s courtyard. Ron Cunningham, Northern Light Home Care & Hospice chaplain, and Michelle Rossignol, Life Enrichment manager at Lakewood, facilitated the event.
Lakewood resident Jane Bulmer, left, releases her butterfly with assistance from Tricia Costigan, president of Northern Light Inland Hospital. Submitted photo
“We can choose to focus on negativity, or we can choose our mindset and focus on things that make us smile, like butterflies. Choose to soar like the butterfly,” said Cunningham.
“The butterfly is a beautiful visual reminder for our residents and loved ones that life is good,” he added.
“Seeing the residents’ expressions and the joy that the butterflies brought to them was priceless,” said Rossignol.
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