Cedarhurst of West Plains hosted a heartwarming event that touched the lives of its 21 memory care residents. The Angel Embrace Network, a nonprofit based in St. Louis, traveled to the community to deliver personalized baby dolls to each resident, providing comfort, companionship, and joy. The organization, founded by the family of Verdie Mae Mills—a former certified nursing assistant (CNA) and activity assistant who passed away from Alzheimer’s— brought this special program to West Plains. For the Mills family, the event was not only about honoring Verdie’s legacy but also about providing meaningful emotional support to those living with memory loss. Kimberly Harralston, the Life Enrichment Director at Cedarhurst of West Plains, shared how the partnership came to life. “Verdie was my friend, and a former coworker. After she passed, I connected with her family, and we organized this visit. The event was magical as tears of joy were shed, and the residents responded with smiles, hugs, and affection for their new dolls.” Each baby doll was personalized with thoughtful details, such as clothing that reflected the resident’s personal interests. For instance, one resident named Gary received a doll wearing a shirt featuring a motorcycle Angel Embrace Network Brings Comfort & Joy to Cedarhurst of West Plains Memory Care Residents Story Idea Submitted by Kim Harralston, Life Enrichment Director, Cedarhurst of West Plains
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