It seems like yesterday when my grandmother first moved in with my family. The scent of Gram's perfume filled our home and made me smile. It brought back memories of my childhood visits. Gram has always been independent, however, she began requiring assistance with everyday living.

After much deliberation, our family found an assisted living facility. It had a friendly staff, lovely decor, appealing common areas, and gourmet meals. The bedroom even had a garden view. It was the "perfect place." Who wouldn't want to live there? We were encouraged not to visit for at least a month, being told that Gram "needed time to adjust." Against my better judgement, I listened. A few weeks later, during an unannounced visit, I realized that the appearance had been deceiving.

On Mother's Day, I found Gram alone, slumped over on a couch. She was unkempt, over medicated, and incoherent. It took me twenty minutes to find help in this "perfect place." How dare anyone treat my grandmother this way! I took immediate steps to have her removed from this facility. After contacting her physician, she was admitted to the hospital. I was now faced with another dilemma.

After a stressful search for help I was introduced to the "small care home" option for our elder loved ones. Only six residents with 24 hour assistance, and all the comforts of home. I was delighted with the level of care and compassion the residents received on a daily basis.

Sadly, my cherished Grandmother passed away shortly after moving in. The seventeen accounts of abuse and neglect she endured prior to her relocation took her life, as it does with many other frail seniors.

A Granddaughter's Promise" is a tribute to Sally Ann Werra; to not only honor her memory, but to honor all grandmothers and grandfathers with protection and dignity. Please remember, someone really does care.


May God bless you,


Christine Canavan and Family