Diane Ryan has been a volunteer guardian for nearly six years. She had little experience with nursing homes, the elderly, or Alzheimer’s dementia prior to becoming a GSI volunteer. Since that time she has served four clients, all in nursing homes and all with dementia, and she has become an Alzheimer’s expert. Currently Diane has two clients at the same facility. One spoke little English and was sad all of the time when Diane became her volunteer. Now she is happy and smiles and she speaks mostly in English. Her favorite color is hot pink so Diane buys a lot of her clothes in shades of pink. Recently Diane became the volunteer for a second client who is in the Alzheimer’s Unit. The client was quiet and uncomfortable with leaving the unit for any activities. With Diane’s encouragement the client entered into the Valentine’s Day Competition for Queen. When she won, she stood up from her wheelchair laughing and dancing in the main dining room. Both clients have blossomed under Diane’s care.
Diane’s cheery, enthusiastic demeanor makes her a favorite with staff and residents alike. She is dependable and uses good judgment in advocating for her clients. Over the years, she has learned to handle end-of-life issues and has arranged for and attended funerals for two of her clients. She also has had to move two clients from one facility to another
Congratulations to Diane for doing such a great job for her clients and GSI!