When our sisters and coworkers at Sacred Heart Convent say “We have your back,” you can count on that.
Both sisters and coworkers at the motherhouse look out for one another, providing a safety net in order to ensure positive healthy outcomes and safety for all.
Brad Cox, who leads the maintenance and groundskeeping departments at SHC, said caring for the well-being of the sisters is much more than maintaining the building’s mechanical systems.
Safety first
“Every day, we work to ensure that our sisters—many of whom are in their 80s and beyond—are safe, comfortable, and able to live with as much independence as possible. Whether it’s adjusting HVAC systems to keep their rooms at just the right temperature, maintaining reliable lighting for visibility and safety, or making sure the boilers and chillers are running smoothly, everything I do is with their well-being in mind so they can focus on their spiritual well-being without worry," wrote Brad in an email.
His department also responds to personal requests made by the sisters. His team is used to “fixing beds, replacing watch batteries, helping with TVs, or maintaining kitchen equipment the sisters rely on daily. These small tasks may seem simple, but they make a big difference in helping the sisters feel cared for and capable in their own space.
“We see our work as a way to support their dignity and independence," Brad said. "I’m grateful to be part of a team that shares that mission.”
Aleshia Dickerson, who leads the housekeeping and custodian department, said even though their work happens behind the scenes it is always done with a deep sense of care and respect for the sisters they serve.
“Safety is always top of mind. Our housekeepers are trained to watch for fall hazards—loose rugs, misplaced furniture, spills—and we act immediately to correct them,” wrote Dickerson in an email.
“Our custodians are diligent in maintaining clean, clutter-free, and slip-resistant floors. During colder months, extra care is taken to ensure entrances and pathways are safe from ice or moisture. When it comes to items like GPS watches or assistive devices, we do our part to make sure they are always within reach and in working order, and we report promptly if something needs attention,” she continued.
A family atmosphere
Dian Washington, the activities director and manicurist for the sisters, said she enjoys the camaraderie that is shared among the sisters and coworkers.
"I love older people and the wisdom they share," she said.
When asked if she had any stories to share about the sisters she smiled.
"One sister shared a memory that when she was growing up she would get up early, like at 5 a.m. so she could milk the cows," she continued.
Dian enjoys providing support that the elder sisters need.
"We help them with daily living, like getting dressed and doing activities together. We go on walks outside, or push their wheelchairs if they aren't steady on their feet," she said.
Sister Rose Marie Riley, who is motherhouse prioress and has the assistance of Sisters Rita Marie Range and Phyllis Schenk, is especially aware of the contribution the hoped-for blanket warmers will make to the sisters' comfort.
"Many of our senior sisters in Regina Coeli become very cold following their bath. Blanket warmers will allow our nurses to warm towels for those after-bath moments. Warm blankets allow sisters who are ill or more sedentary to rest well," she said.
According to Dickerson small acts can make a big difference in preserving dignity and independence.
“This could mean placing items where sisters can easily reach them, giving them space while still being close at hand, or learning individual routines and preferences so they feel at home and in control of their environment,” she wrote.
“These efforts are done with love and a sense of mission. The sisters are the heart of our community. It’s truly a team effort, and we are proud to be part of that circle of care.”
For the wanderers
Sister Rose Marie also noted that several of the sisters are wanderers. "Being able to use GPS watches will give these sisters an element of independence as they wander in areas close to their rooms in Regina Coeli," she said. And, "If they wander too far, the watches make it possible to track where the sister is at all times, communicate with her, and know whether she has fallen. This will give us all a measure of security that is essential to our sisters' well-being and safety."
Dominican values
When a sister professes her life-long vow as a Dominican, she promises to live by the four basic values of our life: prayer, study, common life, and preaching.
"As we age, prayer often becomes the foremost pillar," Sister Rose Marie said. "Our motherhouse is a 'Powerhouse of Prayer.' Our beautiful chapel invites us to come and pray throughout the day. The wood of our chapel stalls is uncomfortable for those who have arthritis or other physical difficulties. Chapel cushions will make a huge difference. In addition, uniformly made cushions will eliminate the wide variety of cushions and pillows that currently detract from the aesthetics and safety of this sacred space."
You make it possible
Sister Kathleen Anne Tait, the director of mission advancement for the Dominican Sisters, says she is especially aware of how important donors' gifts for these needs will be for the sisters who live at Sacred Heart Convent. "Our donors are the ones making it possible for us to provide for the safety, comfort, and independence of the sisters we love so much. We couldn't do it without you."
