How a talented artist found a home at Riverview
RHC community
Bruce is a talented artist who finds inspiration in nature, which is evident when you visit his unit at Riverview Health Centre. Even before entering his room, you take notice of the eye-catching lakeside painting he created that is hanging in the hallway, and his room showcases even more of his talent with beautiful drawings of birds, raccoons, and a wolf, all framed and hung with pride.
This is a pastime that Bruce has enjoyed for much of his life.
Bruce came to live at Riverview Health Centre almost five years ago now after a particularly challenging time health-wise. He requires the use of a ventilator around the clock and, for years, he was able to manage his health while living at home with his parents. That changed five years ago. His health took a turn, and while his medical team tried to determine the cause, Bruce spent five long months in hospital.
Eventually, doctors determined Bruce needed a specialized tracheostomy tube that would help him breathe better and more consistently. This also meant that he would need more specialized care and support than he was getting at home.
Since then, he has made his home at Riverview Health Centre, the province’s only residential facility specializing in the 24/7 care of adults requiring long term ventilator support. The expert, collaborative team focuses on providing Bruce and 26 other residents exceptional care and comfort.
“I am confident that I am receiving the very best care here. The staff have worked to get to know me, which helps them to understand my goals,” says Bruce.
Bruce likes to stay connected with family and friends and with the help of technology, he is able to video chat every day with his parents who live in Arborg, MB, as well as his cousin who has lived in Japan for 30 years.
Bruce enjoys working in his room on his latest piece of art. He has a wonderful picture window with a view of the courtyard, bringing in lots of natural light. He also enjoys participating in the variety of activities offered by the Therapeutic Recreation Team.
This past summer, staff accompanied a group of residents, including Bruce, to see the “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” exhibit. Of the outing, Bruce said, “It is nice to be able to get out and do things again. COVID restrictions really limited what was possible. It was an enjoyable day, and I am thankful I was able to attend.”
Because of donors like you, Bruce and his fellow residents can have experiences like a visit to a gallery that many of us might take for granted. What an incredible gift – thank you!
100% of Therapeutic Recreational programming is made possible through donor support. Therapeutic Recreation is the specialized application of recreation and experiential activities that assist in maintaining or improving health status, functional capabilities, and ultimately the quality of life of persons with unique needs. This includes outings, games, art therapy, special performances, holiday celebrations and so much more. These activities not only provide entertainment and social opportunities to residents but also help with mental health and quality of life. Donors to the Riverview Health Centre Foundation help to ensure that residents like Bruce have an enriching experience at Riverview.
