In honor of my caregivers, I would like to share my story about how Amber Powell, Lisa Nicholas and everyone at the Villa LIFE center has truly made a difference in my life.

I was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised seven children there with my husband. Several years ago he passed away and I suffered a stroke. My daughter, Denise, invited me to come live with her and her family, and I was so grateful. But it was tough to leave my home and the memories we made there. That’s why I am equally thankful for Catholic Health’s LIFE program on the OLV campus.

Since moving to Hamburg, I have attended the Villa LIFE program five days a week. I enjoy it so much and it has made the transition a little easier. I have made many new friends and the people at the center are so kind and caring, from my social worker, Lisa Nicholas, to the nice people who work in the kitchen.

In particular, Amber Powell, my home health aide, has helped me almost from the start. She’s like family to me. The little things at the center also mean a lot to me. There are plenty of activities, such as ceramics and crafts and bingo. I like bingo because I win a lot! When I had to stop going for a while because of COVID, I couldn’t wait to get back to the center.

My daughter will tell you the program also helps her out tremendously. Aides come in the morning to help her get me out of bed and ready for the day. The bus comes to pick me up in the morning and brings me home before dinner, so Denise can be at work knowing I am safe and being cared for. The program relieves a lot of stress.

Please consider honoring your special caregivers, with a donation to support the Continuing Home and Care Foundation. To make your gift, please their website to make your secure donation online at CHSBuffalo.org/Foundations. Any and every contribution is appreciated.

 If you have had your own great experience with a caregiver, this is your opportunity to honor the great work that they do. Simply fill out Angel of Care form to share your story about your caregiver at one of the Continuing Home and Care sites.

With my sincerest thanks, 

Elizabeth Rodriguez