Vance VanMatre, 78, is a long-term care resident of Countryside Manor. Vance came to Countryside after open-heart surgery. He is an easily likable man with a firm handshake and warm smile. “I’m a life-long resident of Anderson, Indiana, born and raised here. In fact,” he continued, “I lived in the same house my entire marriage.” Vance has been married for 57 years. He has one daughter, 2 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.
After his surgery Vance experienced some complications and moved to Countryside for treatment and rehab. When he started his rehab he felt it was overwhelming. “It hurt too much to do therapy. I quit. Just laid in my bed.”
That’s not how Countryside works! With the gentle prodding of his nurse Angie and frequent friendly visits by the activities director Barb Waggoner, Vance began to work again and slowly walked the road to recovery. He worked harder this time and gives the credit to his nurses. “The nurses are great,” he said.
Vance is feeling much better now and walks to the dining room for lunch every day. “The cooks make me home-made 1000 Island dressing for my salads”, he said with a grin. Vance participates in all the activities at Countryside Manor. “I like the card games, UNO especially.” Vance is a charmer with a ‘hello’ and a kind word to everyone he meets. Vance now helps those who are hesitant to do their therapy. “The nurses were great to me and I have to give credit to the Lord upstairs. I am doing great and I feel good. Everyone here helped me and I want to give back.”
At Countryside every one of our residents receives compassionate care and the opportunities to thrive. For more information on Countryside Health and Living Community call us at 765-649-4558 or stop in for a visit at 205 Marine Drive, Anderson IN.