The Universal Season

The Universal Season

By Greg Davis
United Way of Blount County Volunteer

The one undeniable challenge that no man, woman or child can ignore or overcome can be found in the universal prospect of aging. No scientist, man of the cloth, doctor or lawyer has found a breakthrough, doctrine, wonder drug or loophole that avoids this, the inevitable prospect for the mortal man. And with it comes, perhaps, the one unmistakable tie that binds us all as one.

It is a season in which we must accept certain facts, and come to terms with the family of man; a season whereby most, if not all, must accept the helping hand.

In a unique program sponsored through the power of U, the aged are allowed the freedom, independence and autonomy to endure, even persevere in this season with grace and dignity. It is a program that focuses, not on the affliction, but on the individual.

The Senior Citizens Home Assistance Service (SCHAS), a United Way of Blount County funded agency, provides the eldeerly a little edge in life when they are no longer able to completely provide for themselves. They give stylized attention to every individual and personality.

Take for example the Poese (pronounced "Paisey") family of Maryville. One year ago in April, Mrs. Poese was "hit", as Mr. Poese described it, with a stroke that left her unable to walk and speech impaired. Mr. Poese had heard from a neighbor about SCHAS, and he decided to contact them.

Vickie Burgin was in a planning session at the Knoxville headquarters when she got the news. She in turn went directly to the nursing home where Mrs. Poese was recuperating from the stroke. Vickie has been a member of their extended family ever since.

She and Mrs. Poese discuss scripture, and she laughingly jokes with Mr. Poese, who does all the cooking and grocery shopping for the household. He likes that SCHAS frees him some time to take care of family business, or just to take a stroll as part of his therapy.

Vickie is trained in CPR, and also assists Mrs. Poese with her therapy, using a walker to regain coordination. Mrs. Poese is now able to carry on discussions with people, although she still tires easily. Just ask her about Vickie’s children though, and her eyes light up. She is fond of talking of the children and how they enjoy playing with her dog, Millie.

Helen Hendrick, a supervisor with SCHAS also helps with Mrs. Poese for time to time. Helen coordinates the caregivers with patients and hand picks them to ensure they are of like personality.

SCHAS caregivers provide skilled and trained professional who serve as companions and friends; plan, prepare and serve meals; make beds and do laundry; write letters, help with personal care, and maintain a cheerful and happy environment; and relieve family members who are primary care givers.

The Senior Citizens Home Assistance Service is just another example of how the power of U empowers a universe of care.