Country Terrace resident moving home in March

Six months ago Linda Dicks was using a feeding tube, today she's eating independently

March 1, 2012 -- Deron Hamel

When Linda Dicks moved into Country Terrace in 2011 she was using a feeding tube, but thanks to her positive attitude and the care she received at the Komoka long-term care home, she is now eating on her own and is preparing to move into her own apartment later this month.

Although staff members say it's not every day you see a resident move out after coming into the home using a feeding tube, they also say Dicks is not your everyday person.

A vocal resident gifted with tenacity and determination, Dicks motivated herself through the recovery process after sustaining a head injury that sent her to hospital about six months ago.

Not one to give up, Dicks' strong spirit persevered once she moved into Country Terrace.

"I was determined I wasn't going to feel sorry for myself," she tells the OMNIway. "What was I going to do with the rest of my life?"

She says she listened to the nurses' advice, kept her chin up and through the months her situation improved.

Dicks credits staff members for their caring along the way, and encouraging her to remain independent. She also worked closely with the home's physiotherapist to keep her strength up.

Dicks prides herself on her independent nature, and thanks staff for supporting her self-reliance.

"I haven't needed anybody's help, apart from medication, but everyone here has been so kind," she says. "They encouraged me here. I would recommend this nursing home to anyone."

Dicks says the one aspect of moving into her own apartment she's looking forward to most is cooking for herself. And what's the first thing she would like to cook?

"Maybe a roast beef," she says.

If you have a story you would like to share with the OMNIway, please contact the newsroom at 800-294-0051, ext. 23, or e-mail deron(at)axiomnews.ca.

If you have feedback on this story, please call the newsroom at 800-294-0051, ext. 23, or e-mail deron(at)axiomnews.ca.

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