My First Staff Meeting as Medical Director: A Reflection on an Incredible Team

My First Staff Meeting as Medical Director: A Reflection on an Incredible Team

Today marked my first staff meeting as the medical director at Cottonwood Creek and Aspen Creek memory care residences, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share my experience. The moment I stepped into the Cottonwood Creek building in Cheyenne, Wyoming, I felt a palpable sense of warmth and dedication that enveloped me. It was clear that I had joined an amazing group of professionals who genuinely love their jobs and care deeply for our residents.

It was 6:30 PM, and almost all of the residents were asleep. We were joined by one quiet conspirator who loves being among a group. She sat contentedly the entire time, clearly comforted by the familiar faces of those who care for her, all within her sight. When I educate families about how to interpret a loved one's communications, I encourage them to use their powers of observation to notice a loved one's body language, facial expressions, and physical presence. This resident was the very definition of contentment, a testament to the fact that she feels right at home with the Cottonwood staff.

As I looked around the room, I was struck by the energy and engagement of our staff. Their smiles and enthusiasm were infectious. It was evident that each team member was not just performing a job but embracing a calling. They are not just caregivers; they are compassionate individuals who understand the profound impact they have on the lives of those they serve.

Our executive director, a true gem with a heart of gold, has created an environment that attracts loving and kind-hearted souls. You can feel the authenticity in the air—every interaction, every shared laugh, and every caring gesture radiates a warmth that can only come from a team that feels like family. It’s no surprise that the culture at Cottonwood Creek fosters such a welcoming vibe, allowing all who enter to feel at home.

During the meeting, we asked our staff what they liked most about working at Cottonwood Creek. Their responses showcased the heart of our mission. “I love the residents; they feel like family,” one team member shared, highlighting the deep connections staff form with residents and their families. Another said, “Once I started working here, I knew I was in the right place, and I won’t work anywhere else.” Such sentiments reflect the loyalty and passion that our staff exudes.

It was genuinely touching to hear how our team values not just the tasks at hand but the relationships they build with our residents. “I love that we are not only encouraged but that it's part of our job to spend time caring for and getting to know our residents,” one staff member mentioned. This approach allows them to recognize even the slightest changes in our residents, ensuring they receive the care and comfort they deserve.

As the meeting came to a close, I was filled with gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated individuals. Their commitment to comforting and caring for our residents isn’t merely a part of their job description; it’s woven into the very fabric of who they are. Together, we will continue to create a nurturing environment where both staff and residents thrive.

As our meeting concluded, I watched two caring staff members gently guide our quiet companion to her room for the night. I silently expressed my gratitude for being surrounded by such a network of love, concern, and dedication to the safety, comfort, and well-being of our most vulnerable.

I am excited about what lies ahead at Cottonwood Creek and Aspen Creek and look forward to collaborating with this incredible team to provide the highest-quality care. Here’s to many more meetings filled with inspiration, teamwork, and the shared goal of making a positive difference in the lives of our residents!