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Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS)
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CLC Resident Reunites with Mother on his Birthday
Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS)
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CLC Resident Reunites with Mother on his Birthday
A priceless birthday gift - Keeshawn Gavin feels his mother’s loving touch for the first time in more than a year when the New Horizon CLC opened its doors to visitors again on April. (Photo by William Townsend)
By Sheila Austin, Public Affairs Officer
Monday, April 19, 2021
“Happy birthday, my sweet little peanut,” are the first words that Mary Watson has whispered to her son, Army National Guard Veteran Keeshawn Gavin, since February 2020. The New Horizon Community Living Center at the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System Tuskegee Campus closed its doors to visitors to safeguard against the spread of COVID-19. The April 6 visit was doubly sweet for Watson because it was Gavin’s 37th birthday.Being at his side and caressing his face took Watson back to the day her son was born. “I could care for him then, now he’s 6-foot-four and needs care that I can’t provide,” said Watson, who jumped at the chance for an in-person visit when CLC visitation rules were relaxed.
“As I drove to Tuskegee that day, I was filled with excitement and joy. It was a miracle! After the pandemic started, I thought I might never make the drive again.” Watson admits being overwhelmed by news accounts about the pandemic but says she never doubted the care her son would receive despite her ability to be there.
“They take the best care of Keeshawn and the other Veterans who are there. I don’t have the words to thank them enough for what they do,” said Watson.
While visitations were on hold, the CLC took advantage of technology to keep residents in touch with their loved ones. Watson’s son has been non-verbal for nearly eight years so physical touch is essential to their communications.
“We use technology to help families keep in touch. But nothing takes the place of personal contact. The staff is as happy to have the families return as the Veterans are to see them,” said Dr. Audrey Hodge, associate chief of staff for Geriatrics and Extended Care and Rehabilitation.
Visits have resumed and are carefully scheduled to maintain public health discipline for the well-being of the residents, staff and visitors. The New Horizon Community Living Center continues to be recognized nationally for providing 5-star quality care to residents.
For more information about VA Community Living Centers visit https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/VA_Community_Living_Centers.asp.
