Testimonials
March 1, 2018
In appreciation for the wonderful care Judy Bromley received. If I ever need a facility I will recommend your facility. Thank you for the care of not only Judy but always being there for the family also.
Janette Kuly
December 1, 2017
Dearest Staff of Northcrest:
We, the family of Lillian and James Maack want to thank you for everything you did and said to make Mom and Dad's final years comfortable and happy. Being named Valentine King and Queen was a highlight of their stay. We appreciate the way you made their family welcome by letting us have family events there and letting us bake cakes for their birthdays. As you could tell, family was important to them and we appreciate your indulging us.
You gave Mom a sense of purpose by listening to her when she expressed being bored and let her fold napkins, towels, and bibs. If she had had her way, she would have helped fold all the laundry. Of course, they had to be folded 'correctly'. If we were visiting and helped with the task, we were told if they were not folded 'correctly'--her way. She had been known to refold things 'correctly'.
You treated Dad with dignity as he progressed in his dementia. He had a brilliant mind before the disease and even though he didn't talk much as the end, he still acknowledged the staff with a growl. Thank you for trying to help Mom understand the effects of dementia and talking to her when she felt totally out of control, thinking he should just do as she said. It is sad to watch the one you love and depended upon become someone else. She missed that other person.
You included Mom and Dad in activities. Before Northcrest, Mom did not feel like she could leave Dad alone. Thank you for letting her know you would keep an eye on him and give her a break. She so enjoyed going to bingo. If we were visiting at bingo time, the visit was over because it was time to go 'win her three games'. She marveled at the crafts that were made and proudly displayed her projects. She glowed when you praised her handiwork and crocheting. Her greatest pleasure was in doing for other. It was hard for her to become a recipient of someone doing for her.
Thank you for fixing things she would eat and for bringing her try to her room on the days she wanted to eat in her room. We are so glad Randy learned how to make milk toast 'correctly'.
Thank you for filling her bird feeder, hanging pictures, fixing her tv, joking with her. I remember one visit when Jordan came in and said he was were to bug her. Without missing a beat, she said the exterminator had been there and must have missed him.
Thank you for talking to her and sometimes being firm with her when she got so upset about feeding and caring for Dad. Family would not have had that success. Mom struggled with her lack of control over the natural progression of life.
I could mention so many more instances of your kindness to Mom and Dad. This letter would go on for pages. Those things are not listed, but nonetheless, they are acknowledged and appreciated.
So many times when someone is in the hospital and they say they want to go home, it is to the home they had because or the home they grew up in. The last time Mom was in the hospital, she told the hospital staff she wanted to go home...home to Northcrest. You were all instrumental in helping her to feel at home. After Dad died,we were concerned that she would be alone. She said she wanted to go back to Northcrest because there would be people there who cared about her. And you did, I saw it many times, walking or pushing her down the hall, any number of you would say hi to her, give her a hug or pat her on the shoulder. She was stoic around her family and assured us she was 'fine'. We learned later that she was sad, but it from us. She was stoic around her family. Thank you for stopping in, checking on her, listening to her and sitting with her she was sad...even on your own time. Thank you for showing her Snapchat photos and lifting her spirits.
These qualities of love and compassion are not in the job description, but are so evident in the employees at Northcrest. It doesn't matter if you are full time, part time, maintenance, kitchen, activities, cleaning, laundry, nurses, CNA's, support staff of the owner, you all contribute to making Northcrest HOME for the residents. You should be proud of yourselves that you do make a difference in their lives. You do not choose your career for the money but for the good you can do for others. Bless you all for that.
Hugs and love on behalf of the families of Jim(Adequate Maack with the big fat feet) and Lillian Maack,
Janet Petersen
November 6, 2017
Dear Northcrest Friends,
We thank you so much for the care and care given to Phil in his last days-he told us “Everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”
Family of Phil Sherbondy
March 9, 2017
I wanted to thank everyone at Northcrest for taking such great care of my Mom(Donna Lobendo) during her time there. You have an amazing staff!
Love,
Dani & Larry Gresham
Van Lobendo and family
January 16, 2017
Steve and Everybody,
Not enough space here to mention all the staff that befriended mom (and me!). One of the nurses said it right...'Northcrest is a family'. A professional and fun family. Thank you to each one of you! My plan is to continue Country Marvin(maybe not until February) So...you can't get rid of me can you! :) Tell everyone how much I appreciate them.
<3 Pamela
...Your motto is perfect 'Houselike atmosphere away from home'.
January 10, 2017
Thank you so much for the wonderful care your care center gave to my mom, Joy Rosenquist. I am so glad mom was at your care center! Everyone was so nice and friendly and caring to her!
Her favorite daughter,
Judy Morgans
March 24, 2016
Thank you all so much for the kindness and care you gave my father and our family. You are all wonderful and you do make a difference in people's lives.
Sincerely,
Michael Clayton
December 15, 2015
To: Northcrest.
A special thank you to all of you for the great care that you gave our Dad(Harold Shriver). For listening and guiding us. I will miss seeing you and visiting. Not only were you Dad's family--mine too. You all do a wonderful job.
God Bless You.
Katie
October 1, 2015
Thank you for the care you gave my friend Gina Hollbrook. Your facility was always clean. The administrator and staff were always friend and helpful. I have told my family that your establishment is my choice if I ever need that kind of care. I'm sorry she is leaving, I enjoyed visiting her while she was there.
Thank you,
Ardyth Gerst
June 3, 2015
With many thanks to your for your kindness and great care while I was here for my therapy--Northcrest Living is so great with services, and all employees and aides were great.
Thank you,
Colleen Swisher.
P.S. Good to be able to going home.
May 22, 2015
To the nurses & staff at Northcrest Living Center,
I just wanted to take the opportunity to express my thanks for the care provided to my grandparents, Albert & Mary Voss, in the final years of their lives. During each and every visit I made, the staff exhibited professionalism and genuine concern for the health and well being for the residents including my grandparents. You truly understand the "care" in healthcare.
Thank you so much,
Jeffery Matter
January 20, 2015
As a social worker for the public, I was in numerous facilities across the state of Iowa, and want to say that I have been impressed by all the staff here at the Living Center. All of us--Luella's family and friends-- are so very thankful for the care and compassion she received. And also that my father received during his short time there.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart--know that your actions and deeds are not unnoticed. Thank you!
Carolyn & Dennis Robison
June 3, 2014
To the Staff, Nurses, Aides and Kitchen Staff:
Thank you all for taking such good care of our Linda for the past 3 1/2 years. Your understanding and patience is deeply appreciated. Her care from you was done with compassion and concern. Thank you again for making a great lady, like Linda, feel like part of your family, too.
With love and gratitude,
Stan Smith and Family
May 20, 2014
After breaking my pelvic bone, I landed at Northcrest Care Center for therapy. I arrived in a wheel
chair from the hospital and was soon flat on my stomach, face down and not wanting anyone to touch
me. I soon learned that therapy involved movement. It started with sitting up, eating in the dining area,
using a lift to stand, getting to the comfortable wheelchair stage, then the walker and finally walking
on my own. None of this would have happened without the encouragement of every single person
who works at Northcrest. The CNA’s, the RN’s, kitchen, laundry and maintenance people showed
patience, kindness, and were graciously willing to take care of physical and safety needs to make my
time there as enjoyable as possible.The occupational and physical therapists knew what I needed and, although I was a bit reluctant,
were persistent. They skillfully assessed my progress and made me aware of areas I needed to improve.
The director was a visible and integral part of the Northcrest community. He made daily contact with everyone in the facility.
I would highly recommend the therapy at Northcrest for anyone who has surgery and needs long or short term therapy.
Karen Holmes
February 21, 2014
Denise and Staff:
Thank you for the loving and supportive care that you and your staff gave to my brother, Lonnie, as well as his family. Everyone associated with Northcrest was compassionate in helping him accept his limitations and encouraging him to help keep his pride and dignity. He always was the one to help others and am sure it was hard for him to be the one who had to accept help as his body failed him. God Bless You All. Northcrest will be someplace that I will recommend to anyone in need of the service and healthcare you provide for their needs. Thanks again, Denise!
Mary Bees
April 2013
Thank you so much for all the care you have given to our Dad while he was in your care. We appreciate it very much.
Al Fries Family
January 22, 2013
Dear Carolyn,
I want to thank everyone there for being so wonderful, kind and helpful. I see now why my Dad liked being there.
Thank you,
Amy Skinner
January 15, 2013
I would like to thank Steve and absolutely everyone at Northcrest
Living Center for making a wonderful "home" away from home for my 96-year-old
mother Ethel Heuckendorf. Mom received professional, ethical and timely medical
care, loving attention, and a feeling of belonging to the "family" at Northcrest.
Thank you to everyone at Northcrest! Our family would highly recommend this
facility to anyone looking for quality care for their loved one.
Sincerely,
Family of Ethel Heuckendorf
October 6, 2012
Steve and Staff.
What a terrific achievement! Not only did we recieve excellent medical care but gained wonderful friendships with each other. While we were healing with rehab we were enjoying our stay with you. The three of us are now in an Assistant living and are neighbors with each other. We tell everyone what a great time and fun we had at Northcrest! So far, we are doing fine and thank you for your care!
PS. Can't forget "Betty's kitchen", best food we ever had! Big thanks! PSS. Can't forget the Holidays, you made them a lot of fun!
"Rehab Grads 2011"
Themla Herrington, Theresa Fedor and Diana Fender
In appreciation for the wonderful care Judy Bromley received. If I ever need a facility I will recommend your facility. Thank you for the care of not only Judy but always being there for the family also.
Janette Kuly
December 1, 2017
Dearest Staff of Northcrest:
We, the family of Lillian and James Maack want to thank you for everything you did and said to make Mom and Dad's final years comfortable and happy. Being named Valentine King and Queen was a highlight of their stay. We appreciate the way you made their family welcome by letting us have family events there and letting us bake cakes for their birthdays. As you could tell, family was important to them and we appreciate your indulging us.
You gave Mom a sense of purpose by listening to her when she expressed being bored and let her fold napkins, towels, and bibs. If she had had her way, she would have helped fold all the laundry. Of course, they had to be folded 'correctly'. If we were visiting and helped with the task, we were told if they were not folded 'correctly'--her way. She had been known to refold things 'correctly'.
You treated Dad with dignity as he progressed in his dementia. He had a brilliant mind before the disease and even though he didn't talk much as the end, he still acknowledged the staff with a growl. Thank you for trying to help Mom understand the effects of dementia and talking to her when she felt totally out of control, thinking he should just do as she said. It is sad to watch the one you love and depended upon become someone else. She missed that other person.
You included Mom and Dad in activities. Before Northcrest, Mom did not feel like she could leave Dad alone. Thank you for letting her know you would keep an eye on him and give her a break. She so enjoyed going to bingo. If we were visiting at bingo time, the visit was over because it was time to go 'win her three games'. She marveled at the crafts that were made and proudly displayed her projects. She glowed when you praised her handiwork and crocheting. Her greatest pleasure was in doing for other. It was hard for her to become a recipient of someone doing for her.
Thank you for fixing things she would eat and for bringing her try to her room on the days she wanted to eat in her room. We are so glad Randy learned how to make milk toast 'correctly'.
Thank you for filling her bird feeder, hanging pictures, fixing her tv, joking with her. I remember one visit when Jordan came in and said he was were to bug her. Without missing a beat, she said the exterminator had been there and must have missed him.
Thank you for talking to her and sometimes being firm with her when she got so upset about feeding and caring for Dad. Family would not have had that success. Mom struggled with her lack of control over the natural progression of life.
I could mention so many more instances of your kindness to Mom and Dad. This letter would go on for pages. Those things are not listed, but nonetheless, they are acknowledged and appreciated.
So many times when someone is in the hospital and they say they want to go home, it is to the home they had because or the home they grew up in. The last time Mom was in the hospital, she told the hospital staff she wanted to go home...home to Northcrest. You were all instrumental in helping her to feel at home. After Dad died,we were concerned that she would be alone. She said she wanted to go back to Northcrest because there would be people there who cared about her. And you did, I saw it many times, walking or pushing her down the hall, any number of you would say hi to her, give her a hug or pat her on the shoulder. She was stoic around her family and assured us she was 'fine'. We learned later that she was sad, but it from us. She was stoic around her family. Thank you for stopping in, checking on her, listening to her and sitting with her she was sad...even on your own time. Thank you for showing her Snapchat photos and lifting her spirits.
These qualities of love and compassion are not in the job description, but are so evident in the employees at Northcrest. It doesn't matter if you are full time, part time, maintenance, kitchen, activities, cleaning, laundry, nurses, CNA's, support staff of the owner, you all contribute to making Northcrest HOME for the residents. You should be proud of yourselves that you do make a difference in their lives. You do not choose your career for the money but for the good you can do for others. Bless you all for that.
Hugs and love on behalf of the families of Jim(Adequate Maack with the big fat feet) and Lillian Maack,
Janet Petersen
November 6, 2017
Dear Northcrest Friends,
We thank you so much for the care and care given to Phil in his last days-he told us “Everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”
Family of Phil Sherbondy
March 9, 2017
I wanted to thank everyone at Northcrest for taking such great care of my Mom(Donna Lobendo) during her time there. You have an amazing staff!
Love,
Dani & Larry Gresham
Van Lobendo and family
January 16, 2017
Steve and Everybody,
Not enough space here to mention all the staff that befriended mom (and me!). One of the nurses said it right...'Northcrest is a family'. A professional and fun family. Thank you to each one of you! My plan is to continue Country Marvin(maybe not until February) So...you can't get rid of me can you! :) Tell everyone how much I appreciate them.
<3 Pamela
...Your motto is perfect 'Houselike atmosphere away from home'.
January 10, 2017
Thank you so much for the wonderful care your care center gave to my mom, Joy Rosenquist. I am so glad mom was at your care center! Everyone was so nice and friendly and caring to her!
Her favorite daughter,
Judy Morgans
March 24, 2016
Thank you all so much for the kindness and care you gave my father and our family. You are all wonderful and you do make a difference in people's lives.
Sincerely,
Michael Clayton
December 15, 2015
To: Northcrest.
A special thank you to all of you for the great care that you gave our Dad(Harold Shriver). For listening and guiding us. I will miss seeing you and visiting. Not only were you Dad's family--mine too. You all do a wonderful job.
God Bless You.
Katie
October 1, 2015
Thank you for the care you gave my friend Gina Hollbrook. Your facility was always clean. The administrator and staff were always friend and helpful. I have told my family that your establishment is my choice if I ever need that kind of care. I'm sorry she is leaving, I enjoyed visiting her while she was there.
Thank you,
Ardyth Gerst
June 3, 2015
With many thanks to your for your kindness and great care while I was here for my therapy--Northcrest Living is so great with services, and all employees and aides were great.
Thank you,
Colleen Swisher.
P.S. Good to be able to going home.
May 22, 2015
To the nurses & staff at Northcrest Living Center,
I just wanted to take the opportunity to express my thanks for the care provided to my grandparents, Albert & Mary Voss, in the final years of their lives. During each and every visit I made, the staff exhibited professionalism and genuine concern for the health and well being for the residents including my grandparents. You truly understand the "care" in healthcare.
Thank you so much,
Jeffery Matter
January 20, 2015
As a social worker for the public, I was in numerous facilities across the state of Iowa, and want to say that I have been impressed by all the staff here at the Living Center. All of us--Luella's family and friends-- are so very thankful for the care and compassion she received. And also that my father received during his short time there.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart--know that your actions and deeds are not unnoticed. Thank you!
Carolyn & Dennis Robison
June 3, 2014
To the Staff, Nurses, Aides and Kitchen Staff:
Thank you all for taking such good care of our Linda for the past 3 1/2 years. Your understanding and patience is deeply appreciated. Her care from you was done with compassion and concern. Thank you again for making a great lady, like Linda, feel like part of your family, too.
With love and gratitude,
Stan Smith and Family
May 20, 2014
After breaking my pelvic bone, I landed at Northcrest Care Center for therapy. I arrived in a wheel
chair from the hospital and was soon flat on my stomach, face down and not wanting anyone to touch
me. I soon learned that therapy involved movement. It started with sitting up, eating in the dining area,
using a lift to stand, getting to the comfortable wheelchair stage, then the walker and finally walking
on my own. None of this would have happened without the encouragement of every single person
who works at Northcrest. The CNA’s, the RN’s, kitchen, laundry and maintenance people showed
patience, kindness, and were graciously willing to take care of physical and safety needs to make my
time there as enjoyable as possible.The occupational and physical therapists knew what I needed and, although I was a bit reluctant,
were persistent. They skillfully assessed my progress and made me aware of areas I needed to improve.
The director was a visible and integral part of the Northcrest community. He made daily contact with everyone in the facility.
I would highly recommend the therapy at Northcrest for anyone who has surgery and needs long or short term therapy.
Karen Holmes
February 21, 2014
Denise and Staff:
Thank you for the loving and supportive care that you and your staff gave to my brother, Lonnie, as well as his family. Everyone associated with Northcrest was compassionate in helping him accept his limitations and encouraging him to help keep his pride and dignity. He always was the one to help others and am sure it was hard for him to be the one who had to accept help as his body failed him. God Bless You All. Northcrest will be someplace that I will recommend to anyone in need of the service and healthcare you provide for their needs. Thanks again, Denise!
Mary Bees
April 2013
Thank you so much for all the care you have given to our Dad while he was in your care. We appreciate it very much.
Al Fries Family
January 22, 2013
Dear Carolyn,
I want to thank everyone there for being so wonderful, kind and helpful. I see now why my Dad liked being there.
Thank you,
Amy Skinner
January 15, 2013
I would like to thank Steve and absolutely everyone at Northcrest
Living Center for making a wonderful "home" away from home for my 96-year-old
mother Ethel Heuckendorf. Mom received professional, ethical and timely medical
care, loving attention, and a feeling of belonging to the "family" at Northcrest.
Thank you to everyone at Northcrest! Our family would highly recommend this
facility to anyone looking for quality care for their loved one.
Sincerely,
Family of Ethel Heuckendorf
October 6, 2012
Steve and Staff.
What a terrific achievement! Not only did we recieve excellent medical care but gained wonderful friendships with each other. While we were healing with rehab we were enjoying our stay with you. The three of us are now in an Assistant living and are neighbors with each other. We tell everyone what a great time and fun we had at Northcrest! So far, we are doing fine and thank you for your care!
PS. Can't forget "Betty's kitchen", best food we ever had! Big thanks! PSS. Can't forget the Holidays, you made them a lot of fun!
"Rehab Grads 2011"
Themla Herrington, Theresa Fedor and Diana Fender
September 18, 2012
My husband Jack was a resident at Northcrest Living Center for 3 1/2 years. While he was there, I experienced the wonderful care and compassion from the greatest nurses, CNA's, volunteers, maintenance people, etc. at the center. Everyone made me feel at home and took such good care of Jack. I always felt comfortable having him under their care when I wasn't there.
I thank God that there are special people, such as they are, to be there for Jack and myself while going through this type of crisis. I can never thank all of them enough.
God Bless all of you,
Marley Terry
September, 2012
Thank you to each and everyone for taking such good care of Terry. We both appreciate all you do.
Carole and Amy Nissen
June 27, 2011
Dear Steve,
I just wanted to write a note to thank you for the care NCLC has given my husband Paul these past few weeks. I am just so very pleased with your facility in so many ways...
The profession staff you have assembled is unparalleled--from Carolyn Rocha, the caring coordinator, to Denise and her doting nursing staff. Your OTs and PTs "pump" hard in a very friendly manner to help regain lost strengths. And I can't leave out the dream dieticians who can make even a diabetic/renal/heart diet taste good!
Your facility is always clean and has a "welcoming smile" in every space--from clever de'core to the outside areas. I want to commend you for your leadership and a job well done. A rehab facility is so much more than just "brick and mortar", it is a home away from home. With all the TLC that flows from within Northcrest Living Center's walls, you are indeed creating a castle on the hill!
Sincerely,
Patty Plummer
August 5, 2011
I had a knee replacement and went to Northcrest Care for therapy. While there, I found the staff, nurses and housekeeping were outstanding. Also, the activities and meals were very good.
Gale Brown
Neola, IA.
My husband Jack was a resident at Northcrest Living Center for 3 1/2 years. While he was there, I experienced the wonderful care and compassion from the greatest nurses, CNA's, volunteers, maintenance people, etc. at the center. Everyone made me feel at home and took such good care of Jack. I always felt comfortable having him under their care when I wasn't there.
I thank God that there are special people, such as they are, to be there for Jack and myself while going through this type of crisis. I can never thank all of them enough.
God Bless all of you,
Marley Terry
September, 2012
Thank you to each and everyone for taking such good care of Terry. We both appreciate all you do.
Carole and Amy Nissen
June 27, 2011
Dear Steve,
I just wanted to write a note to thank you for the care NCLC has given my husband Paul these past few weeks. I am just so very pleased with your facility in so many ways...
The profession staff you have assembled is unparalleled--from Carolyn Rocha, the caring coordinator, to Denise and her doting nursing staff. Your OTs and PTs "pump" hard in a very friendly manner to help regain lost strengths. And I can't leave out the dream dieticians who can make even a diabetic/renal/heart diet taste good!
Your facility is always clean and has a "welcoming smile" in every space--from clever de'core to the outside areas. I want to commend you for your leadership and a job well done. A rehab facility is so much more than just "brick and mortar", it is a home away from home. With all the TLC that flows from within Northcrest Living Center's walls, you are indeed creating a castle on the hill!
Sincerely,
Patty Plummer
August 5, 2011
I had a knee replacement and went to Northcrest Care for therapy. While there, I found the staff, nurses and housekeeping were outstanding. Also, the activities and meals were very good.
Gale Brown
Neola, IA.
