Methodist Transitional Care Center

June 23 is Hydration Day!
In June, each year we celebrate National Hydration Day! Proper hydration is vital to living a long healthy life, but it’s often overlooked due to the regular hustle and bustle of the day. Carrying a water bottle can make a huge difference in your summer health, and may also help protect from dehydration, heat stroke, and other dangerous issues. It is never too late to start taking better care of your hydration!
Unsure how to go about drinking more water? Be sure to speak with your physician to know how much is right for you. Then treat yourself to a new refillable water bottle. They come in all different styles and colors with the ounces labeled. If you find it difficult to remember to drink water, Set an alarm on your phone to help remind yourself to keep up with your hydration. There are free apps for your phone or tablet that can keep track and send reminders about your water intake. Find a method that works for you and make a commitment to stay hydrated all year long! We can do this!

Happy Father’s Day! This Father’s Day, we celebrate and honor the incredible fathers and father figures who have helped shape our lives with their love, guidance, strength, and support. We are especially grateful for the fathers among our residents, whose wisdom, stories, and life experiences continue to inspire those around them each day. We also recognize the many fathers, grandfathers, foster fathers, surrogate dads, uncles, brothers, and positive male role models who are part of our healthcare family, including those who will be spending Father’s Day caring for others while away from their own loved ones.
As you celebrate take a moment to let the important men in your life know how much they mean to you. Whether it’s a phone call, text message, visit, or sharing a favorite memory or photo, these simple gestures can make a lasting impact. Spend quality time together over dinner, a round of golf, a fishing trip, or a movie. Send a card or a thoughtful gift to show your appreciation and gratitude. Most importantly, take the opportunity to create meaningful moments and remind them how loved and valued they truly are.
From all of us, we wish every father and father figure a very happy and memorable Father’s Day!

Celebrating Juneteenth! Did you know that Juneteenth became a federal U.S. holiday in 2021, even though Texas has recognized it as a state holiday since 1980? On June 19, 1865, Army Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of more than three million enslaved people. This historic moment came more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued and marked a significant milestone in our nation’s history.
Today, Juneteenth serves as a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the strength, contributions, and rich cultural heritage of African Americans. It is also an opportunity to come together as communities, honoring the values of freedom, dignity, respect, and inclusion that continue to shape our future.
We encourage everyone to celebrate Juneteenth with family, friends, and neighbors by participating in prayer and religious services, educational programs, community events, cultural celebrations, speeches, or family picnics. By learning from our shared history and celebrating the progress that has been made, we can continue building stronger, more connected communities for generations to come.

Happy Picnic Day!
A Taste of Summer, Indoors or Out: Nothing says summer quite like a picnic! Whether it’s a sunny day in the courtyard or a shady spot on the patio, finding a sweet spot near a park, a picnic can brighten any afternoon. Picnic-style meals don’t need to be fancy to be fun. A colorful spread of finger foods like fruit, cheese and crackers, veggie sticks, or mini sandwiches can feel just as special as a traditional cookout. Too hot or rainy outside? No problem. Bring the picnic indoors with bright paper napkins, music, and a few friendly faces. What makes a picnic special is taking the time for yourself or with friends, to relax and enjoy a meal and the day. Make it your own with a cozy blanket, a favorite drink, and a small group of friends or neighbors. It’s the feeling that makes it festive, not the location. Let’s share a meal with someone soon. Happy Picnicing everyone!

Happy CNA Week!
This week, we proudly celebrate and thank our CNA’s for the incredible care, compassion, and dedication they bring to our residents every day. CNAs are often the first to offer a comforting smile, a helping hand, or kind words during difficult moments. Your commitment to serving others makes a lasting difference in the lives of our residents, families, and fellow team members.
The work of a CNA goes far beyond daily tasks… it is about building relationships, providing comfort, and treating every resident with dignity and respect. We are grateful for the heart, patience, and professionalism you bring to our families and community each day. During CNA Week, and throughout the year, we thank our CNAs for the meaningful impact you make and for the care you provide. Your dedication inspires us all. Thank you to all the CNAs who make a difference, one act of kindness at a time.

Connections That Last
I recently had the pleasure of catching up with two incredible healthcare leaders at Methodist Transitional Care Center in DeSoto.

It was great to learn more about the innovative programs HMG is implementing, observe an in-service on ACP's VR program, and meet several talented rehabilitation professionals who help make a difference in residents' lives every day.

Thank you for the warm welcome and for sharing the exciting work taking place within your organization. It's always inspiring to see teams embracing new ideas and technologies that enhance the resident experience and support quality care.

Great Outdoors Month is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, whether it’s a short stroll or a bit of quiet time in the sun. You don’t have to travel far to embrace the wonders of nature.
Here are some simple ways to get started:
* Relax in the courtyard, porch, or on the patio
* Have a picnic lunch outside, or enjoy a meal in the fresh air
* Take a leisurely walk with a friend or caregiver
* Visit a local park and watch the birds
* Tend to plants, flowers, or a small garden
* Try easy lawn games like ring toss or bean bag toss
* Enjoy the peace of a nearby pond, beach, or waterway
Even small moments spent outdoors can lift your spirits, spark connection, and bring peace. Fresh air, sunshine, and a little nature can go a long way! Let’s enjoy the outdoors every chance we get.

Celebrating our June Kings and Queens!

Let’s Savor some Sweet Memories! June is National Candy Month. It may come as a surprise that National Candy Month is in June and not October when trick-or-treating takes center stage. June offers a sweet chance to revisit old favorites-like butterscotch discs, peppermints, or a classic chocolate bar—and savor the memories they bring. Candy has a long and fascinating history. Lollipops, for example, date back thousands of years, starting with dried fruit dipped in honey and placed on sticks. The modern lollipop was introduced in 1908 by George Smith, who named it after his horse, Lolly Pop, and patented the name in 1931.
For many, candy brings back fond memories of visiting the corner store and picking out “penny candy.” Classics like NECCO wafers, Bit-O-Honey, Dots, Good N’ Plenty, and Tootsie Rolls still hold a special place in the heart. Today’s favorites might include Sour Patch, gummy Bears, Reese’s, Nerds, and more.
Whether it’s an old-fashioned treat, a favorite, or a bold new flavor, take a moment to celebrate National Candy Month with a little something sweet. What’s your favorite Candy? Just remember and don’t go too crazy! Be sure to check with your physician to ensure your treats fit into your health plan.

Happy Work Anniversary!