Happy Birthday Deb Smith

We asked our employees two questions this year as they reflect on their birthday and purpose. 

1. If you could raise awareness about one thing, what would it be?  If I could raise awareness about one thing, it would be the difficulties our elderly population have navigating the world around them. When dealing with aging parents, we find that it can become quite difficult trying to help them understand some of the things that are now a part of everyday life. If you consider things like hearing and vision loss, memory loss, mobility issues, and couple that with a world that doesn’t work the way they remember, it can be very confusing and difficult for them. It can be very heartbreaking to see how some people react. We need to approach them with patience and kindness. I know firsthand how challenging it can be trying to ‘parent’ someone who has spent your whole life being your parent. So don’t argue with mom or dad when they don’t make sense. Just breathe when that person in front of you in the store is taking a little longer to dig out change, can’t quite figure out the credit card machine, or questions a price. Be ok with them going 10 miles under the speed limit. Walk slower. Don’t dismiss them.  Listen to the story you have heard 100 times. Laugh even if it isn’t funny. Keep in mind that with God’s grace we will all be there someday.

2.  What’s one thing about you that others might be surprised to learn?  The one thing others might be surprised to learn about me is that I use to belong to band. We played mostly bars, fund raisers, and special events in southern MN and western WI.  I did vocals, backup vocals, and also played guitar and keyboard.  I loved playing country and older rock. This experience has given me wonderful memories and forged lifelong friendships.

Happy Birthday Deb!