NASHVILLE -- For residents at Saint Thomas Hickman Nursing Home in Centerville, Tenn., this Tuesday began as just another ordinary day -- until the Tennessee Titans pulled in their parking lot.
Titans Rookies Amani Bledsoe, Nate Davis, Parker Hesse, Amani Hooker, Isaiah Mack, David Long, Jr. and Kareem Orr visited the nursing home patients this morning with warm smiles, signing autographs and giving each resident the gift of a warm blanket for the approaching cool months.
"The partnership between the Titans and Saint Thomas Hickman is an exciting way to support our community and bring joy to their nursing home patients and staff," said Hooker.
"Saint Thomas Hickman truly appreciates the Titans visit to our facility," said Kevin Campbell, chief administrative officer of Ascension Saint Thomas Hickman Hospital. "The day means so much to our residents, patients and staff. The visit creates an emotional spark in all of us, and the Titans players always seem to really enjoy visiting with our nursing home residents as well. Our residents love to cheer them on every Sunday!"
The residents, their families, staff and volunteers were all anxiously waiting to meet the Titans players. One of the most excited was Phillip Farinnato, who is 28 years old with cerebral palsy. He loves football and the Titans are his favorite team! Phillip volunteers at the facility two days per week lifting residents' spirits and making them smile.
Titans rookies bring smiles to residents at Saint Thomas Hickman Nursing Home on Titans Tuesday. (Photos: Lynne McCracken)
One of the oldest residents is Eltie Davis, who is 99 years old. Eltie loves reading, giving direction to others and socializing, but she also loves watching the Titans play each week with her daughter, Jean.
"In the five years that I have been with Saint Thomas, the day that the Titans come to visit our residents is one of the most exciting for them," said Renee' Whaley, director of nursing at Saint Thomas Health. "We truly appreciate the Titans taking time out of their day to bring happiness and joy to people and making them smile. The residents, their families and staff look forward to their visits every year."
"It's all about giving back," said Hooker. "It gives you a great feeling to visit the nursing home patients and see them light-up. You know you are making their day brighter."
The Nursing Home at Saint Thomas Hickman Hospital is a 40-bed JCAHO-accredited facility that provides compassionate, faith-based care for older adults. The facility currently occupies 29 residents and provides medical services, which include physical, occupational and respiratory therapy, wound care, dental care, audiology, ophthalmology, podiatry and mental health counseling. Additionally, they offer a wide variety of programs and services to help senior adults stay active and mentally stimulated, including bowling, memory-enhancing games, cooking classes, as well as regular outings to shopping centers and restaurants.
Located in Centerville Tenn., Saint Thomas Hickman Nursing Home is a member of Saint Thomas Health and part of a comprehensive network of hospitals and affiliated ventures with an integrated ministry of helping people lead healthier lives, transforming their healthcare experience through trusted personal relationships and holistic, reverent care.
It's wonderful to watch how a group of Titans players can impact these residents, and it is heartwarming to watch the exchanges. Today was not just another ordinary day, but an extraordinary day at Saint Thomas Hickman Nursing Home.
