In lives full of defining moments, we help create even more.

Whether it’s a brief encounter or a life changing event, these unique moments enrich lives. And we do everything we can to make them happen.

To give you an idea of how we can make a difference, here are Remarkable Moments from our home.

Our Defining Moments

Remarkable Moment at Extendicare Oakview Place: The Importance of Planning and Caring

At Extendicare Oakview Place, a resident’s family member shared her experience in the passing of her mother. She acknowledged the positive support she received at the home and emphasized the importance of planning and caring.

And so it goes…

There’s one word in any language that can cause an overwhelming flow of emotions – fear, anxiety, sadness, depression, sorrow, grief, sympathy, compassion, peace, closure.

That word is death and sometimes it seems forbidden to talk about it, as if it might not happen if we don’t.

Alas, especially when we enter mid-life, there is no hiding from it. Within the last two years, I have lost both parents and have left every emotion there is while also being executrix and having power-of-attorney in both instances, which can turn into a full-time job with paperwork and meetings.

But sunshine comes even in times of darkness and the inner beauty of people you are for is discovered.

For me, one of the greatest gifts my parents gave me was making their final arrangements beforehand. For our personal situation, they chose Wojcik’s Funeral Chapel & Crematorium and “when the time came” everything was taken care of in one phone call, and my parents were taken into their care in a caring and professional manner.

Obviously, our family’s choice is not for everyone but no matter your preference, taking care of your last wishes so your heartbroken family members do not have to endure the business of it is one of the most unselfish acts we can do for our loved ones.

Richard Wojcik quietly brought his business into our Silver Heights neighborhood and I’m thankful to all the staff for their soft-spoken, caring manner (and, of course, they are all good huggers).

I have said before there are so many special people working difficult and heart-wrenching jobs, such as the folks at Extendicare Oakview Place and people at funeral homes who have chosen to help us in our times of need.

I can’t imagine going to a job every day where you deal with sadness and crying on a regular basis but I’m sure thankful there was someone there to give me a needed hug.

When a beautiful soul leaves us, a new life often joins us and I will beyond thankful and excited to welcome our future grandson in January.

Although losing my parents is one of the toughest things I’ve had to endure, I’m beyond thankful they took the time to make their final arrangements. My husband and I will be arranging in the near future to ensure our children an easier voyage, albeit I certainly hope that won’t be for many, many, many more moons to come!

Virginia Sperl, a resident's family member and a community correspondent. This article is reprinted from Canstar Community News with permission.

Adult Day Program at Extendicare Oakview Place

Extendicare Oakview Place has recently been published in the Winnipeg’s health and wellness magazine called Wave.

Extendicare Oakview Place has recently been published in the Winnipeg’s health and wellness magazine called Wave. The article highlighted the Adult Day Program offered by Oakview Place which provides those who live in the community an opportunity to meet other individuals with similar interests, provide support to families and most importantly, enhances the lives of those in attendance by alleviating the boredom and loneliness some may feel everyday. It is not uncommon to hear a lot of laughter coming form the group and cheering each other as they compete against each other.

A visit from Assiniboine South Choir

Creating a Remarkable Moment

On May 11th the Assiniboine South Choir performed at Extendicare Oakview Place. A Multitude of Angelic voices were heard from over 65 students from all across the division. The musical performance was thoroughly enjoyed by staff, residents and families.

Revitalized and Recharge for Discharge

Mrs. J. was in her mid 70’s when she came to our home after being discharged from the hospital.

Mrs. J. was in her mid 70’s when she came to our home after being discharged from the hospital. She arrived in a wheelchair, unable to walk and feeling very despondent. After a year-long rehabilitation program that included nutritious meals, physiotherapy, social activities and a revitalization of her spirit, Mrs. J. felt recharged and revitalized to the point where she was able to be discharged.