Letters to the Editor - Sept. 3, 2010

In praise of Nathaniel Witherell's staff

To the editor:

In light of the negative stigma often attached to nursing homes, I'd like to bring public attention the experience I had of spending 12 days at Nathaniel Witherell for hip replacement rehab.

While Burke had been my first choice, I had the opportunity prior to surgery to visit Nathaniel Witherell, and I met with George Cossifos. He was absolutely amazing, warm, friendly and most engaging.

He certainly convinced me that Nathaniel Witherell was the rehab center to consider. He praised the staff, the facility itself and all it had to offer. I required special meals, which he arranged.

The staff was lovely and helpful, and I was happy to have made this choice. George was correct in his assignments and delivered as promised.

Thank you, Mr. Cossifos. You are great. As an aside, my neighbor, Pam Rubell, night supervisor, sang Nathaniel Witherell praises well.

In addition, several staff people were particularly helpful, and I wish to relay my experience. They made my stay at Nathaniel Witherell easy and comfortable.

The day started with Delvatine Evell. She greeted me each morning with a wonderful smile and got me moving in a very gentle manner.

Without her, I do not think I would have made therapy on time. The dining room staff was super. They filled my request in bringing me early breakfast each morning and early lunch each day. My day certainly started on the right side.

The two therapists assigned to me, Margarita Temprosa and Aynet Sarmiento, gave me the boost I needed. They were lovely, firm and gentle at the same time.

At times, we started therapy in my room. They were mindful in making certain I was able to get into and out of bed properly and were always smiling and totally committed to their profession.

Last, but not least, William RN ended my day. He was efficient, fast and wonderfully helpful.

These guys were all great.

Nathaniel Witherell is to be commended for the service excellence they provide in this area.

It seems that good things sometimes go somewhat unnoticed. I hope you'll publish this letter.

Flora Smithline

Stamford

Reelect Livvy Floren State Representative

To the editor:

As a private citizen, I am writing to share my thoughts about State Representative Livvy Floren.

I have known Livvy now for more than ten years and I have never met a more determined leader.

Unlike some politicians, Livvy is fully aware that she is empowered by her constituents to represent them and to guide legislation that supports the health and economic well being of our state.

As Ronald Reagan said, "Government is not a solution to our problem, government is the problem." I, for one, want to know that I have someone fighting for me in Hartford. I want a person that has the fortitude to say "no" to spending and "no" to expansion of the government.

It amazes me that more of my fellow citizens are not outraged by the way government treats their tax revenues. As someone who runs a small business, I continually strive to reduce costs and make the business more efficient - not spend wildly with borrowed money.

I know that Livvy understands how important this and other issues are. That is why I want her in Hartford fighting for us.

Also as event chairman for the American Legion Memorial Day commemoration, I think it is important for readers to know that Livvy has not only attended this event, but she has actively supported it behind the scenes, never once trying to leverage it for political gain.

Whether in researching the names of our residents killed in action, reading those names, helping to get guest speakers, or simply providing guidance, Livvy's true patriotism and leadership always shine through.

The same can be said about Livvy's participation in the upcoming September 11th Remembrance Event. Livvy has been a pillar of support with genuine caring and concern.

I hope that everyone would agree with me that keeping Livvy as our representative as well as finding others like her would be the best we can do for ourselves. That is why I will vote for State Representative Livvy Floren on Nov. 2.

Christopher J. Hughes

Event Chairman for American Legion Post 29

Greenwich