Two women who have been part of the Grace Cottage family are gone, far too soon. Former Director of Nursing and QI/Risk Manager Margaret "Peg" Viverito (left), 55, died at Grace Cottage on July 18, after a long battle with cancer. Peg was a major in the U.S. Army Reserves, and a Vermont archery champion.
On September 1, Bonnie Jean Dowley (right), 38, died suddenly of an aneurism. Bonnie was a licensed nurses' aide, an employee of the Adult Day Care program at Stratton House Nursing Home, and a member of the Kenolie Campground family in Newfane. Dr. Bob Backus wrote the following verse in her memory:

Bonnie's Gift

The old woman's rheumy eyes saw the curly, blondish
hair that framed the broad, honest face,
She could not recall her name.

But, the twinkling blue eyes looked down at her gently
and insistently, probing, seeking the clues.
All senses tuned to the need of the person before her.
Then, with deft, sure hands gently applied,
the woman's fears were banished as her hand was touched.

Her hygiene was improved, her back was rubbed,
a joke was shared accompanied by a sweet smile
Laughter tinkled forth from both of them.
The pillow was fluffed, the bed pad was straightened,
a gentle kiss was given with an "I love you."
"Sunshine," said the old woman.
"You are my sunshine."

Hospital/High School Relations

Dick Barker, pharmacy director at Grace Cottage and chairman of the local high school board, finds that he often wears both hats simultaneously. "Members of the medical staff at Grace Cottage have volunteered their time to conduct sports physicals for the students," Barker noted, "at no cost to the school or students. Our Rehab department has also completed free training and screening sessions for high school students. The message from Grace Cottage's administration and medical personnel concerning the high school was loud and clear: 'Let's get involved!"