"I got the vaccine because... my love is greater than my fear," says a Castle Ridge employee.
As the new year begins, we introduce a new employee spotlight series called
We Will. The series and its theme
is rooted in one of several biblical passages that make up our
Biblical Framework for ministry:
1 Chronicles 4:9-10, NIV
In his devotion titled “
A prayer of transformation,” Chaplain Steve Richards reflects, “We, too, can ask God to bless us: to enlarge our borders for service and ministry. With Jabez we see the hope that the old can go and the new can come. When we live in the presence of God’s love, we can and
WE WILL be transformed, and as this happens God’s love radiates through us to others.”
We anticipate that 2021 is a year of hope and transformation. To inspire and encourage, we’ll share weekly uplifting stories of teamwork toward a better future
— for the older adults we serve and for the community we call Presbyterian Homes & Services (PHS).
The first vaccine clinics
"I got the vaccine because...safety of residents, co-workers and my family. My Dad - Harley Kjos" -Angie Nyamburi, Interim Campus Administrator, who feels the recent loss of her father due to COVID.
2021 begins with the first COVID-19 vaccine clinics — and spells hope and relief after a challenging year. “We are one step closer to what will hopefully be the end of this pandemic,” commented PHS President Dan Lindh.
The care center at
Castle Ridge in Eden Prairie, MN, was among the first to receive vaccinations. Janet Goddard, Regional Director of Operations, reflected, “Who knew a side effect of the vaccine would be uncontrollable weeping?!” Janet explained, "I arrived at Castle Ridge and staff were gathered at our daily devotion time, praying over the vaccine. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.” She continued, "You could see the relief on everyone’s faces."
Care center residents and clinical staff received the first dose of the Moderna vaccine on December 29. They will receive the second dose after 28 days. “I am so proud of the team that executed this achievement today in very short order. Both residents and staff had the same weeping side effect as it has been a long time coming,” she said.
For Angie Nyamburi, Interium Campus Administrator, "it was a very emotional day," she explained, "as I lost my dad to COVID-19 on November 30
, and I think of all the residents as being like my parents."
Check out this video from Castle Ridge celebrating their first vaccine clinic:
“I got the vaccine because…”
Castle Ridge employee holds sign #ThisIsOurShot
Strong relief is being met with renewed motivation. One by one, staff and residents stepped up to receive their vaccinations followed by bursts of cheers. They held signs to display their wishes
— some noble, others simple and fun-loving:
- “My LOVE is greater than my fear.”
- “I want to wrestle with my grandkids.”
- “I love you!”
Crediting the leadership of Castle Ridge staff and the power of hope, Janet concluded, “On very short notice, staff stepped up and executed the vaccine clinic during peak fatigue. But they did it with fun, joy and excitement, because they know the end game. They’ve got their eye on improving the future.”
#SaferTogether #BetterTogether