CON clinical rotation focuses on elderly

by Cathy Hunnicutt, College of Nursing, BSN Student

Thank you Oprah! An angel network has taken flight in Charleston. The MUSC College of Nursing, class of May 1999, was inspired by your show on helping others. We decided to find a way to give back to our community.

During the spring semester our clinical rotation was focused on the community and the elderly population. We visited many elderly sites throughout the Lowcountry. The experience was not only educational, but very rewarding. We heard lots of wonderful stories from the elderly, and their stories need to be told and heard.

We wanted to do something special for a population of people that cherish even a moment of your time with them: the elderly. We asked local businesses, companies on the internet, and individuals for donations of personal care products. The response was overwhelming. We received hundreds of toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, Kleenex, etc. We distributed the more than 100 gift bags filled with our donations to Hermina Traeye Nursing Home on John’s Island. The smiles our gift bags brought are indescribable.

“I enjoy older people and I think much of the time our concentration is focused on helping the children. I think that is good, but often we forget our elderly. Our class bonded with each other through this project and we are dedicated to continuing to help with the elderly,” said Jennifer Smith, one of the nursing students.

We would like to acknowledge and thank Thompson Dental Co., Charleston; Dr. Robert Randall, Summerville; Wild Dunes Resort, David Ellis & Jeff Pierce, Isle of Palms; Dr. Cagle, Mt. Pleasant; Patterson Dental Supply, N. Charleston; Col. & Mrs. C. F. Hunnicutt, Mt. Pleasant; Dr. Tom Miller & Staff, Summerville; Dr. Michael Miller & Patricia Barr, Florence; Dr. Jack Condrey, N. Charleston; Dr. Randy Jones, John’s Island; Charleston on the Beach, Holiday Inn, Folly Beach; and Randy Jordan, Greenville.

If you would be interested in making a donation, please call 851-6029. An “Act of Kindness” goes a very long way.

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