“House of angels” officially opens
Richmond Lions Manor-Bridgeport was officially opened on Friday, February 28th with a number of inspiring, humourous and touching speeches, as well as the traditional ribbon-cutting photo opp.
The event was MC’ed by Richmond MLA Linda Reid. Speakers included Richmond MLAs, Teresa Wat and John Yap; Mike Nader, Chief Operating Officer, Richmond; and Natalie Meixner, Executive President and CEO Richmond Hospital Foundation.
In addition to talking about the many wonderful features of the new facility, speakers thanked the many, many people involved in renovating the building; moving residents, staff and equipment, and supporting residents and their families. Special recognition was also given to residents and their families for their patience, support and enthusiasm during the project. A recurring comment had to do with one of the unanticipated – but very popular – benefits of the new space: the spacious and long corridors are a great way for residents to get exercise, and walking them numerous times throughout the day means that staff get such a good workout that they no longer need to go to the gym!
The daughters of two residents also spoke – one in Cantonese – about their families’ appreciation of their bright, spacious new home and for the incredible support provided throughout the entire move project by manager Kathy Wong and her staff. During her comments, one daughter even referred to Richmond Lions Manor- Bridgeport as “a house of angels”.
An informal Open House was held that afternoon, with neighbors and other Vancouver staff invited. Four residents also performed a song they had written about their former home, Richmond Lions Manor.
For more information about the newly renovated facility, a photo album, and even a video tour from Kathy, check out this article.