A Letter to the Editor, North Bay Nugget, North Bay, Ont.

Mattawa’s Best Kept Secret
Just a distance east of North Bay, nestled in the white pines of the Rosemount region of Mattawa, is the Algonquin Nursing Home. It consists of a sprawling, one-storey building with several residential wings, a large open concept area, a common room, a kitchen, dining room and administrative office. It has a homey and friendly atmosphere.
Residents both male and female are allowed to mingle, greet each other, and exchange conversations. They see each other at a stage of life where different degrees of care are required to keep them comfortable. The staff looks after the physical, social and spiritual needs to everyone’s satisfaction. Volunteers from the community are very active at the home at a higher rate of participation than in most places. They talk to the residents and entertain them in an informal or in organized ways by playing games or music.
Since Dad was admitted to the ANH in September 1995 until his death on Oct. 25th, 2000 he received excellent care and attention. He will no longer have to ask, Why am I living here? How long have I been here ? When am I going home? Little did he know that the Home was the best place that one could have selected to close out his life at 90 years of age.
On behave of Rene Riopelle’s family I would publicly like to thank Mrs. M. and Vala, the entire staff and numerous volunteers for attending Dad’s needs. The family is relived that he is no longer suffering from the pain and poor circulation in his legs and that he now resides in his heavenly home with his Saviour, Jesus Christ.
We are touched by the attention that Dad received during the last week at the Home. He passed away in a bed at the Home surrounded by relatives, friends, palliative care people, members of the staff and nurses. In the closing hours of Dad’s life the staff provided comfort and hospitality for the members who were present.
In closing we would like to thank Dr. Wilkins and his colleagues for directing Dad’s medical care. We would also like to thank Father Cain and the Sisters of the Grey Nuns of the Cross for attending to Dad’s spiritual needs.
May God bless everyone mentioned above.
For the family, Clifford A. Riopelle, North Bay, Ont.

(This letter to the Nugget was rejected by the editor because in his opinion, it came across as a lengthy thank you note to you from our family.)