SAFE AND SECURE AND CARINGTON MANOR ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES - 'A TOUCH OF HOME'
Hello! My name is Sandy Tingle and am the owner of both Safe And Secure and Carington Manor Assisted Living Facilities. Safe And Secure caters to the elderly who are more physically disabled. Carington Manor caters to the elderly who are diagnosed with dementia-related illnesses.
As an owner, I truly believe in having a hands-on approach to the day-to-day activities and operation of both facilities. In order to completely and thoroughly understand not only the business side of the operation, one must also put themselves into the 'trenches' per se to understand all aspects of the disease factors, along with the issues of caregiving. It is when both of these are accomplished that one truly understands the 'whole' operation and is able to effectively accomplish the goals and make informed decisions for all involved.
In fact, it was imperative for me to completely understand what a family member(s) actually goes through as a caregiver. It was and still is important to me to live, breath, eat, and sleep the role of an elderly/dementia caregiver. Over the course of the last 23+ years of being in that role, I can honestly say to a caregiver - and mean it - "I Understand." To say the least, being a caregiver is exhausting, challenging, frustrating, and at times, gut-wrenching. However, it is also fulfilling, rewarding, and humbling, as well.
As a result of having this wonderful opportunity to fulfill this dream come true, there are three 'jobs' that I have vowed to accomplish. First, as a social worker, I promise to advocate for the rights of our residents - no matter what. It is important to be their eyes, ears, and voice, especially because they are so vulnerable. Second, as an administrator, our residents come first and foremost - period. We strive every day to provide the best care for each of our residents. And it doesn't stop there. We are not afraid to give our residents a hug, a kiss, a hand to hold, a shoulder to lean on or cry on, or to tell them that we love them and it is going to be okay. We genuinely care about our residents. All of us do. Lastly, as an owner, I promise to uphold the highest standard of integrity to residents, family members, staff, third-party entities, and anyone else who is pertinent in the well-being of our residents.
This journey has been accomplished as a result of many people. I have always credited my staff for the success of these two facilities. I have always said that I could not do this work without them, nor would I want to. They are the backbone of this company. And I believe I have the greatest staff! I have the utmost respect and love for each of them. Each day, they display their love, dedication, positive attitudes, and exemplary care to our residents. They are a class act!
To all my families - past and present - thank you so much for entrusting us with the care of your loved one! I am thankful to all of you for allowing us to take care of them. It is a responsibility that is not taken lightly. It is truly an honor and a privilege!
To all my residents - past and present - you are my heroes! Not once have I heard you complain. Not once have I heard you question, "Why Me?" You are courageous, brave, and admirable. It is because of you that we have all learned the true meaning of life. I love each and every one of you!
Lastly, I thank God every day that we can continue to serve our residents with the kind of care that they deserve. I pray for His continued guidance, protection, and wisdom as we continue through this journey of Caregiving!
Respectfully yours,
Sandra A. Tingle, MSW, MA