Residents at Granite Ridge Care Community in Stittsville, ON, were dreaming about trips to the cottage, relaxing by the water, and spending the summer as they would with friends and family. As residents continued to share stories of their favourite summer memories, it sparked an idea – but would it be possible?
Kayla Sparling, Director of Resident Programs at Granite Ridge, began researching overnight resorts that offered accessible spaces by the water. There was a lot to consider, from the number of beds in each room, to the location of the nearest emergency department. Doors had to be wide enough for wheelchairs to fit through, the bed height had to be considered for transfers, and food options had to accommodate specific diet requirements. To ensure the location was suitable, the safety and comfort of the residents could not be compromised.
“Therapeutic recreation is all about creating inclusive opportunities, so I wasn’t going to let any barriers get in the way,” said Kayla. After nearly two months of research and planning, she had found a location that would be perfect for an overnight excursion with a cottage feel – Calabogie Peaks Resort, in Calabogie, Ontario, roughly an hour drive from Granite Ridge. Finally, everything came together and they were ready to set out on their big adventure.
Kayla, along with two Recreation Therapy Assistants, Kyarah Donnelly and Paige Johnson, accompanied residents Helen, Yvette, Peggy, Sarah, and Diana on a delightful getaway to Calabogie Peaks Resort. Among the many highlights of the trip, everyone agreed that enjoying s’mores by the fire was one of their favourite moments, reminding them of the joyful summers from their past, while creating new memories they will continue to cherish.
After they returned from the trip, the team was amazed by the feedback from the residents. Diana shared, “I want to stress how wonderful it was to be surrounded by such positive energy. Kayla, Kyarah, and Paige operated like a well-oiled machine…there was nothing that they couldn’t handle with a smile. I enjoyed great food, a good sleep, seeing a new place, and making new friends.”
Helen was compelled to write a letter to thank Kayla and the team. “Thank you so much for organizing and making this trip so special…This was above and beyond my expectations and left me totally exhausted and wonderfully happy,” she wrote.
Kayla, who has worked in long-term care for 14 years, was overcome by emotion after hearing about the impact this experience had on the residents. “It brought tears to my eyes… this was definitely one of the highlights of my career thus far,” she said.
This goes to show that with some determination, an open mind, and a great team, anything is possible. Thank you Kayla, Kyarah, and Paige for bringing this idea to life, and for proving that dreams can come true at any age.