When Griselda Palacio was hired to work in the dining room at PineCrest, it wasn’t her mastery of the English language that landed her the job. “It’s true that she didn’t speak much English, but Griselda was hired because her kindness, personality and professionalism were a perfect fit for PineCrest,” said Tammy Anderson, director of dining services.
As Palacio began working, however, she soon realized the language barrier between her and many of the residents could be problematic, especially when it came to taking orders. “That’s when Mrs. Brown stepped in,” Palacio recalled.
Mrs. Brown, better known as Frances (Fran), was a resident at PineCrest. When she noticed Palacio struggling with understanding some of her fellow residents, she made an unexpected offer. “She offered to teach me English,” said Palacio. “We spent 20 minutes together each day. It absolutely changed my life.”
During those short, daily sessions, Palacio and Brown developed a close friendship. “I didn’t just gain language skills,” she said. “I gained a true friend.” That’s why it was so hard for Palacio when Brown passed in late March. “It seemed to happen so quickly,” she remembered. “I still miss my friend.”
The kindness of one woman who was willing to reach out to help someone has resonated throughout the senior living community. “It really speaks to what PineCrest and Methodist Retirement Communities are all about,” said Anderson. “The language of friendship that Mrs. Brown fostered lives on in all the residents and staff members.”
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