A Sister’s Letter

From LA the sister of CF, one of the PACE participants:

I wanted to share how special your program is and how much we loved and appreciated the care that you took of CF who passed away on 8/25/25.

Your care from the perspective of medical, social, community and tangible support was instrumental in our being able to care for CF as he declined.

Starting out the day, enjoyed his bus ride where he would get to talk with the drivers, especially JO and BG who would chat about his favorite superheroes or Steve Harvey and even play his favorite tunes. They were so kind to us as well, reassuring us that CF was in good hands. They went above and beyond.

GM (the PCP) was instrumental in helping us manage his medical needs. She was responsive and supportive of all of the many concerns we brought and she was so kind to my parents who are in their 80’s and struggling with understanding and managing all of the challenges. I love the entire team at the medical clinic and the way they worked together to support CF. What a wonderful interdisciplinary way to support aging individuals! We were so grateful to get all of his needs met at PACE and not have to run him around to different facilities. Having coordinated care took a huge burden off of our shoulders.

The front desk staff always greeted us with a smile and helpful attitude. Please let them know that they are the face of PACE and they are doing it well.

Marie took special interest in CF, responded to my inquiries with professionalism and concern, always having a solution to offer to our challenges. She arranged in-home care that allowed CF to remain in his home much longer than we would have been able to as well as the physical support needed to keep him safe at home. She has reached out to support us in so many ways and we are grateful for her kindness and professional skill of juggling all of the clients’ needs.

J (social worker) jumped in when D left to provide all around support and case management for CF as we needed more help desperately. She took time to understand CF and our family system to offer exceptional support including the connection to Linden which turned out to be a wonderful place for CF to move into.

The spiritual care chaplain, Linda Miller and the bible studies were a highlight of CF’s days there at PACE. He also loved activities including BINGO and coloring. The day staff would tell us how much they enjoyed CF and that meant so much to us.

Special thanks and the highest regard goes to PO, CF’s in-home caregiver who became family. He cared for CF with gentleness, kindness and professionalism. He interacted with CF with interest and curiosity, listening to his repeated thoughts and needs. He sat with CF while he ate and chatted with the family every time he was over. He always had a smile on his face along with his encouraging words. We will miss PO so much and believe that he is one of the reasons we made it through these hard times so much more effectively.

Caregiver support groups and caregiver appreciation gatherings made us feel special and cared for during these challenging years. Thank you for keeping them a priority.

I recommend PACE to anyone and everyone in need of help for their aging loved ones. Please let me know if you ever need a testimonial as to the effect and benefit that Huron Valley PACE had for our family. You will never know how much you do for your clients and their families and how much you are appreciated.

Sincerely,

L A

Sister of CF