Donor Profile: Wendi Harrison, A Story of Love, Resilience, and Community

Wendi Harrison’s journey with Deer Lodge Centre is one of deep emotional resonance, characterized by love, resilience, and an unexpected renewal of independence. With her beloved husband James residing on the third floor for nearly a year, Wendi has found a supportive community and a second home, not just for James, but for herself as well.

Finding a Second Home for James

After James spent four challenging months at Concordia, the Harrisons faced the difficult task of finding a more permanent place where James could receive the care he needed. Initially,  Wendi considered Holy Family, primarily for its proximity. However, the daunting prospect of navigating Main Street by bus led her to reconsider. The reputation of Deer Lodge Centre as a top-tier facility, bolstered by glowing reviews from those familiar with it, ultimately influenced her decision. “People were so optimistic,”  Wendi recalls. “I said, I don’t care how far I go, as long as it’s going to be a good situation for him and me.”

This decision proved to be a turning point. Deer Lodge Centre quickly became a sanctuary for James, offering not only exceptional medical care but also an environment that catered to his and Wendi’s emotional and social needs.  Wendi praises the comprehensive care James receives, from the attentive nursing staff to the dedicated cleaning crew, who all take a genuine interest in his well-being. “It’s been absolutely amazing,” she shares, emphasizing the seamless blend of professional care and compassionate support that defines Deer Lodge.

A Transformation for Wendy

Wendi’s life has been irrevocably altered by James’s relocation to Deer Lodge, but not in the ways she initially feared. With over 60 years of marriage and no children, the couple had been inseparable, sharing a life filled with adventure and mutual support. The thought of living without James by her side was terrifying. However,  Wendi found herself stepping into a new role, one that required her to take charge of her life in unprecedented ways.

This transition was not easy.  Wendi had always been accustomed to James handling many of the household responsibilities, a role he took on with enthusiasm and care. Suddenly, she found herself needing to manage these tasks alone. Yet, rather than succumbing to the weight of these new responsibilities,  Wendi discovered a reservoir of strength and competence she never knew she possessed. “I feel I can really run my house,” she says with pride. She has tackled everything from handling phone calls and managing household affairs to cleaning out their home and overseeing property maintenance.  Wendi has not only maintained but thrived in her independence, embodying a newfound self-reliance that has transformed her outlook on life.

Wendi’s journey towards independence is complemented by the strong network of support at Deer Lodge. The staff and fellow families have become an integral part of her life.  Wendi has formed deep connections with other spouses, sharing experiences and offering mutual support as they navigate the challenges of their loved ones’ care. “It’s like I say, it’s home. When I come here, I’m very, very comfortable,” she remarks. This sense of community has been instrumental in her emotional well-being, providing her with a space to share her journey and find solace in the company of others who understand her situation.

Exceptional Care at Deer Lodge Centre

Deer Lodge Centre has not only provided a safe and nurturing environment for James but has also offered him a quality of life that goes beyond basic care.  Wendi is consistently impressed by the attentive and personalized care James receives. The nursing staff, particularly Vanessa and Carolyn, treat James with the same love and care they would their family members. Carolyn, whose husband also shares James’ name, has been a particularly reassuring presence, always available to discuss James’ condition and reassure Wendy about his care.

James, a former fitness enthusiast and musician, has found joy in the small pleasures that the Centre offers. From enjoying treats like cookies and puddings—indulgences that were rare in his athletic lifestyle—to participating in activities, James is thriving in an environment that respects his dignity and caters to his needs. The staff’s attention to detail, from managing his diet to ensuring he has comfortable clothing, underscores the high level of care that defines Deer Lodge.

Giving Back and Looking Forward

Wendi’s deep appreciation for the care James receives has inspired her to give back to the Centre. Through her foundation, Wendi has committed to making regular donations, with a special focus on the garden at Deer Lodge. “James is not going to have a grave, but he’s going to have some kind of a memorial out in that garden,”  Wendi explains. This gesture is not only a tribute to James’ love for gardening but also a testament to the couple’s enduring connection to Deer Lodge. The garden will serve as a peaceful space where  Wendi can honour James’ memory and reflect on their shared life.

Beyond financial contributions,  Wendi has become an ardent advocate for Deer Lodge, eager to share her positive experiences with others. “I tell anybody who will listen, ‘Hey, listen, you got a problem. Don’t forget Deer Lodge. It’s a wonderful place,'” she says, emphasizing her trust in the Centre’s exceptional services.

A New Chapter of Strength and Hope

As  Wendi reflects on the past year, she recognizes how far she has come. The supportive environment at Deer Lodge Centre has not only provided James with excellent care but has also been a source of immense personal growth for Wendi. She has navigated this challenging chapter with grace, finding strength in herself and the Deer Lodge community. “I am strong now, and I have so much confidence in myself,”  Wendi notes, proud of the person she has become.

Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of compassionate care and the importance of a supportive community. Wendi has found not just a place for James to receive care, but a vibrant community that has enriched her life in countless ways. As she continues to navigate this journey, Wendi looks forward with a renewed sense of hope and resilience, confident in her ability to face whatever the future holds.

Wendi Harrison’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that a caring community can have on individuals and families. Her experience at Deer Lodge Centre underscores the importance of quality care and compassionate support, offering a beacon of hope for others navigating similar challenges. Through her story,  Wendi exemplifies the strength and resilience that define the Deer Lodge community, making her a cherished member of the Centre’s extended family.

Donate today to the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation and be a part of something truly special.