Hubbard Hill - Coronavirus Updates Archive (April-June 2020)

Friday, July 31, 2020

Past 14 days data: 7/17/20/20-7/31/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 0
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 16
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

Covid Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are. Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

We have no new Covid-19 cases to report today.

The reality of the situation is…

We try through this column to strike a balance of information, education, hope, trust, inspiration, and faith, that this too, shall pass.

The recent news has not been especially positive locally or nationally. Even so, we diligently focus on managing those factors and situations which are under our control-and leave the rest to God.

Case in point. While we certainly have been blessed to have mitigated and contained the virus over recent weeks, we still have occasional cases where staff members and were exposed to someone who was COVID-19 positive after leaving Hubbard- sometimes by others living in their home! Vigilant? Yes. Compliant? Yes. Able to control all environmental factors. No. Able to control everything in the world around them? No. Exposure to this insidious virus happens.

We share this so you are aware of our course of action when this occurs, and you may learn how to respond in your household. First and foremost, staff members self-report this situation to us without fear of retribution, suspension of pay, or any other punitive measures. It is simply an acknowledgment we do the best we can. We do not control others. The preventative measure taken for that staff member is to remain quarantined at home for 14 days when it is determined they are asymptomatic. At that time, they may return to work. Per our standard operating procedure-this is per CDC and ISDH guidelines and directives. Again, this is the protocol for staff members.

If you should discover or suspect you have been exposed to someone who may be COVID-19 positive, your first course of action should be to call your primary care physician and/or the COVID-19 Hotline. They will answer any questions and provide the necessary course of action for you and those around you to remain safe. The Elkhart County COVID-19 hotline phone number is 877-826-0011.

We are immensely proud of our staff members who have done an extraordinary job remaining vigilant and protecting our precious residents from exposure and/or contracting the virus. That’s here at Hubbard. Each one of us leaves here and goes into a totally unpredictable environment. Even so, we relentlessly remind each other every day to view the person standing in front of you as though they are COVID-19 positive and behave accordingly. Even your most loved ones. That is our commitment to you and your loved ones. Sustained, uncompromising vigilance.

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

Lord, You made us for good works. You gave us the desire to always learn and grow in our ability to love You and our neighbors. Help us to make progress each day and not to worry about the conclusion that you may bring out of that obedience. Remind us regularly that your conclusions of every matter will always bring fruit even though the conclusion may be different than we were thinking. Your ways are above our ways.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Past 14 days data: 7/15/20/20-7/29/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 1
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 16
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

Covid Cases

We have no new Covid-19 cases to report today.

Self-explanatory, it is not getting any better…

21 States Now in Federal ‘Red Zone’ For Serious Coronavirus Outbreaks.

Twenty-one U.S. states are currently in the “red zone” for coronavirus outbreaks under federal criteria, reporting more than 100 new cases per 100,000 people in the last week, according to a new federal report. Those states are Alabama, Arizona, Kansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin.

And closer to home… the foremost authority on the COVID-19 virus, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, stated today, “My concern is that states including Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky are showing signs of impending danger. Based on the number of positive coronavirus tests in those states, they “are starting to have that very early indication” of a surge, he said. “That’s a surefire sign that you’ve got to be really careful. What you see today is NOT an indication of what you will see in two weeks’ time.”

And here in Elkhart County, the surge is of sufficient magnitude the Indiana Department of Health has mandated that ALL employees in all senior living facilities in Elkhart County be tested again, and be prepared to be tested as necessary to help trace the source of the surge in Elkhart County.

We share this information for so many reasons, but in hopes that everyone will be able with God’s grace to bring patience, understanding, trust, and support to each other as we progress through this journey together. We don’t want to go backwards in the journey and we need everyone doing their part to ensure that doesn’t happen!!!

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Past 14 days data: 7/15/20/20-7/29/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 1
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 16
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

Covid Cases

We have no new Covid-19 cases to report today.

Self-explanatory, it is not getting any better…

21 States Now in Federal ‘Red Zone’ For Serious Coronavirus Outbreaks.

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Thursday, July 22, 2020

Past 14 days data: 7/8/20/20-7/22/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 1
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 15
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

Covid Cases

We have no new Covid-19 cases to report today.

And on we go…. from the Governor…and in Elkhart County

Governor Eric Holcomb today announced an Executive Order for all Hoosiers to wear a mask when in public effective July 27^th. The executive order will require face coverings for anyone 8 years old or older in the following places:

Public indoor spaces and commercial entities
While using public transportation or other vehicle services such as a taxi or rideshare
Outdoor public spaces when it is not possible to socially distance from people not in the same household
Additionally, face coverings will be required in schools for students in the third grade and above, faculty, staff, volunteers, and anyone else in schools. Mask are also required for co-curricular and extra-curricular activities with exceptions for strenuous physical activity.
The state will approach enforcement of the face covering requirement with an emphasis on education. The executive order states a penalty can be levied under the authority of state law. Local governments may impose more restrictive guidelines.

This is serious friends…Governor Holcomb is exercising appropriate caution, so he does NOT have to close our state once again. If we all remain compliant with masks and social distancing, we have a chance to mitigate the spread of this virus. Lest we become compliant at Hubbard Hill, what we have also heard today has now become our reality.

Our precious residents are and will continue to be our top priority with stewardship of their health safety paramount given the deadly impact COVID-19 can have on our population.

HOWEVER, look below at the Elkhart County demographic profile of the virus spread. This is not your Grandma’s COVID-19 only any longer!! The profile in Elkhart County has shifted decidedly younger-which does not mean we are off the hook! While COVID may not have the same health consequences to younger people, they represent a significant risk to increased spread and our population. To moms, dads, grandparents, teachers, siblings…anyone they are encountering. We need to educate this younger population on this very real risk. Please share this with your families, neighbors, and others so we may ALL help to contain this virus sooner rather than later. Your entire household needs to be vigilant and compliant!

Elkhart County Demographics for Positive Coronavirus Cases

The implications expand the risk to Hubbard as well. We have just begun our wonderful journey in outdoor visitation! Everyone has been so happy to be “present” with their loved ones. Let us remind you so we may continue with this program to PLEASE: 1) limit your family visit to TWO family members only; and 2) wear YOUR mask. Given the Governor’s mandate, this is a given.

We have said this from the beginning: we are in this together! Let us ALL, young, and old, lean in together as one to put a stop to this insidious pandemic. We ask your help once again Lord, let us keep our eye on the prize.

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

“I have told you all this so
that you may have peace
with me. Here on earth,
you will have many
trials and sorrows. But
take heart because I
have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

Thursday, July 16, 2020

Past 14 days data: 7/1/20/20-7/15/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 3
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 15
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

Covid Cases

We have ZERO Covid-19 cases to report today!

More progress…!!

Medical transportation opens!

This week we have received and finalized our details of medical transportation changes! All intended to better our resident’s and family member’s quality of life by limiting unnecessary quarantine periods when possible!

Regarding trips to medical appointments

Specifically, residents may attend medical appointments outside of the facility. Should residents go outside for doctor’s, ER visits, or dialysis the following are recommendations for infection control:

Hubbard Hill will take infection control precautions to minimize risk of transmission of COVID-19 (e.g. providing the resident a surgical mask to wear while attending the appointment and performing hand hygiene before and after the appointment.)
These infection control precautions provided for the resident’s transport, as well as the infection control precautions in place in the physician offices, ER and Dialysis centers , enable Hubbard Hill to NO LONGER REQUIRE residents to be placed in quarantine for 14 days upon return to the facility. Nursing will continue to monitor these residents for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 per protocol.
- Residents may select free transportation to and from appointments via Hubbard Hill staff trained transportation with the following stipulations:
  - Resident currently COVID-19 negative tests
  - N95 mask worn
  - And assurance the medical facility is COVID-19 compliant
- Alternatively, residents may use resident and/or paid professional medical transportation. Hubbard Hill may supply names of reputable companies to residents.
- If resident chooses to have family members transport them to appointments, they will be placed in 14 quarantine upon return due to the proximity and exposure to family members.
For more detailed information, contact the Hubbard Hill front desk at 574-295-6260.

Sometimes, baby steps of progress have the greatest impact!!

Hump Day on the Hill with Chaplain, Dave Severance

So yesterday afternoon I took advantage of the glorious low humidity and mowed some of the piece of property on which we hope to build a new home. I was intentional about enjoying the northerly breeze, in contrast to the stifling dew points we have had recently. Enjoyable work, if you can imagine that.

It reminded me of my days as a youngster living on the farm. We had no a/c then. The kitchen screen door was our ticket to freedom. We would push it open, let it slam shut… and the day was ours, only returning for lunch and supper. By porch light, my brother Steve and I would play catch, honing our craft… not wanting to waste one moment of those summer days. My baseball glove became my second companion.

The poet David wrote this about Mother Nature:

“The heavens declare the glory of God,
The skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
Night after night they reveal knowledge.”
(Psalm 19:1-2)

So how is it that we come to “knowledge?” If you stand above today’s political fray… take in the 30K-foot view… you know that sometimes loyalties determine how one looks at truth. What is true for one side, is decidedly untrue for the other.

Loyalty determines perspective. Jesus put it this way, “Whoever has ears, let them hear…” Meaning that “hearing” or “knowledge” comes by faith, by our commitment to something.

Centuries ago, Anselm framed it like this, “faith seeking understanding.” The spiritual awakening happens when we give ourselves over to God in faith… that is when we have “ears to hear.”

Republicans, Independents and Democrats, those on the right and left, and in between… all of us… can lean into nature’s arms and be enveloped by God’s whisper of knowledge. It is no accident that Hubbard Hill’s values include “Beauty,” the commitment to “foster aesthetic beauty in all environments.” The Angel Garden, every single blade of grass, each flower petal… are part and whole of God’s tapestry of knowledge. Healing comes when we tap into this stream.

So, listen to the wind and the rush of the waterfall, feel the sun on your face… and be upheld by the soulfulness of the world around us.

Dave

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

“I have told you all this so
that you may have peace
with me. Here on earth,
you will have many
trials and sorrows. But
take heart because I
have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

Monday, July 13, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/29/20-7/13/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 4
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 15
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

Covid Cases

We have ZERO Covid-19 cases to report today!

It Could Be Worse…

Of course, we always try and keep you abreast of what is going on in our state, our region, our country, and HERE at Hubbard Hill.

Our intention is always to inform with solutions. To offer hope where there is fear, optimism where there is frustration, and actin steps when you don’t know what to do. Today, we want to report important facts for “the rest of the country” and let you know, it is significantly better here at Hubbard Hill!

Recent data regarding nursing homes and assisted living facilities around the country:

Around the country, nursing homes and assisted living facilities have not had predictable access to rapid-results testing-and the results of this shortage have been devastating. There are frequent shortages and inadequate supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) for care providers because they are not on the same priority tiers as hospitals. The government announced phased guidance for reopening nursing homes that hinge on resources that many do not have and cannot get on a timely basis.

Leading Age reports that in many parts of the country improper PPE’s are being sent to nursing homes resulting in staff wearing gowns and other PPE’s over again jeopardizing their own health and that of residents. As the spread races across the country it is expected that more workers will contract the illness as communities are less compliant. Leaving residents exposed. (ELKHART is currently a hotbed)

Today, 40% of all COVID-19 deaths in America have been in nursing homes. One in five facilities of the 130,000 around the country have had at least one COVID-19 death. Although COVID-19 deaths had been in a downward trajectory (recently shifted upwards again) the downward trend was generally due to younger than average persons who fell ill after towns and cities opened. Moving forward it is likely the disease will spill from the young to the old, from restaurants into nursing homes.

We felt it important for you to understand the hard realities that exist today! THIS is why we are SO vigilant when it comes to resident and staff compliance! Indiana has gone from a lower tier outbreak state to on par with Illinois, Ohio and Michigan! The good news is IT can be prevented!! Hong Kong, with a population of 7.5 million people reports no deaths in its nursing homes! They suffered so significantly in the SARS outbreak in 2003 they were ready for COVID! Their standards are extremely high and check every COVID checkbox-and it is working.

How has Hubbard Hill suffered only one COVID death?
Because we responded in real-time to the changing landscape and stayed closely connected to other Leading Age members experiences. We shared ideas and learned together how to fight this virus in similar settings. We paused family visits, community meals, made mask-wearing mandatory, sent vendors and deliveries to separate entrances, rigorously trained the staff on social distancing, screened regularly for temperatures and symptoms, and educated staff on the critical importance of vigilance in social activities. We ordered extra PPE early to assure we had sufficient supplies.

Yet, with all these actions, we still contracted 14 resident cases! With extraordinary efforts and commitment, we were able to contain the virus and return residents to Health! (Which is where we are now-0 resident cases!)

So just when you think you just can’t stand one more reminder to put on your mask, or move six feet away from your fellow residents from our staff, swallow hard, close your eyes, and say to yourself, “it could be worse!” 😉

God bless you us all as we lean in together with renewed resolve to do everything in our power to safeguard the health and safety of our loved ones

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

“I have told you all this so
that you may have peace
with me. Here on earth,
you will have many
trials and sorrows. But
take heart because I
have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

Friday, July 10, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/26/20-7/10/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 4
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 15
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We give thanks…while making a plea

As we slowly and methodically add quality of life initiatives back into our mix, we want to thank all families and caregivers for intentionally and faithfully implementing our compliance measures!! This is the best gift you can give your loved one in this escalating COVID-19 environment. It is game changing and lifesaving!

Given the critical situation in Elkhart County, we are making the plea for you to take it a step further and encourage and support your friends, loved ones, coworkers, neighbors, and families to remain compliant-or begin doing so. Wash your hands, keep social distancing in place (6 feet) and PLEASE wear a mask. In a world where little is in our control, these efforts CAN and DO make a difference!

Elkhart County is in crisis, and as previously mentioned , “a hot spot” in both the state and nation. You may have heard in the media it has now reached a level where the Indiana State Department of Health has called in Center for Disease Control representatives from Atlanta and remotely. Their task: Get at the heart of the spread: identify the source of the spread, understand how it is spreading, and answer the question where: cultures, age groups, communities, and industries. The goal: STOP the spread. They will be present in Elkhart County until July 23^rd at minimum.

Whether you live or work in Elkhart County, St. Joseph County, Lagrange County, Laporte County, Starke County, Marshall, Kosciusko, or Noble County in Indiana, or Cass County, Berrien County, or Saint Joseph County in Michigan…please remain compliant so we may continue, sustain and increase our momentum towards the new normal. Not just when you come to Hubbard, but in your everyday lives. Compliance = Opportunities. All these counties have impact on Hubbard Hill. But the virus does not recognize county lines.

The most recent Elkhart County data reports 21 new cases on Monday and five new deaths during the July 4^th holiday. Totals cases: 3470. Hubbard Hill also had two staff members test positive today and may be directly traced to July 4^th gatherings and spread. Spikes are occurring in the county and now increasing in younger age groups for the same reasons.

Hubbard is a microcosm of the county, and Elkhart County is a microcosm of the country. Pray for us all, lean in, keep up the good work and remember the only thing we ask you to SPREAD is the WORD!

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend! It is possible! 😉

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

“I have told you all this so
that you may have peace
with me. Here on earth,
you will have many
trials and sorrows. But
take heart because I
have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/24/20-7/8/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 3
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 13
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

On our COVID website, we are headlining resident COVID-19 incidence. However, we also report in the update staff COVID-19 incidence as part of the total campus status. As a reminder, when staff members receive a positive COVID-19 test result, they are immediately quarantined in their homes for 14 days and may not return to work without two negative test results.

Looking into our crystal ball

As we try to move from moment by moment planning and dare to look 30 days out, we felt it important to share what we envision with the understanding that the situation is always subject to change. We ALL know change occurs rapidly at this point in the journey together? ☹

We are so pleased to share how successful the outdoor family visitation is going! There is absolutely NOTHING like sitting even 6 feet away in real life and looking into your family’s eyes, hear their voice and feel their love. We are certainly learning together as we go, making improvements, modifying approach, and trying to make the experience a quality one for all!

Moving forward, outdoor visitation will be staged in front of the main building at the outdoor Bistro patio under tents for both Assisted Living residents and Healthcare residents. Residents of the Living Wisdom Center will visit in the outdoor courtyard of the Living Wisdom Center.

How and what we do moving forward is unquestionably impacted by the status of Elkhart County due to the alarmingly high COVID-19 incidence. The governor has identified Elkhart County as a “hot spot” of the virus and has slowed down activities in the county. So far, it has not impacted our ability to continue outdoor family visitation if we (the global we: you and us) remain compliant. Our hope is to expand the program slowly as we continue to experience success thus far.

Looking to the next 30 days, our hope is again to increase the visitation program to enable you to see your loved ones more frequently. We are also placing rigorous screening mechanisms in place enabling us to accept new residents. This screening is significantly more detailed than when we began. We are also increasing our activity schedule, both indoors and outdoors to keep everyone moving and provide a wider array of options!

In the world of the new normal, we are exploring many new and different ways of continuing to restore a quality of life our residents so richly deserve.

HUMP DAY ON THE HILL, with Chaplain Dave Severance
In Jesus’ last meal with his followers, he tells them some of the things that are going to happen to both him and them.
Then he says this,
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NIV)
That word for “trouble” caught my eye, because I know that it is translated differently in various versions as “persecution” or “tribulation.” I wondered if it was particularly related to persecution, or was it more general, as in “trouble?”
I was surprised to find an area of meaning that applies to today! The Greek word is thlipsis, and it can mean persecution or tribulation, but it can also mean distress, anguish, affliction, or trouble. Then get this…
“properly, pressure (what constricts or rubs together), used of a narrow place that ‘hems someone in’; tribulation, especially internal pressure that causes someone to feel confined (restricted, ‘without options’).
(‘compression, tribulation’) carries the challenge of coping with the internal pressure of a tribulation, especially when feeling there is ‘no way of escape’ (‘hemmed in’).
[By contrast, stenoxoria focuses on the external pressure exerted by circumstances.]”
(Quotes, italics and brackets theirs! HELPS Word-studies)
Whether it is the isolation of quarantine, or some other trouble that comes our way… it is our internal response that makes a difference. Wouldn’t it be such a huge gift to have a peace that transcends our circumstances… that helps us release the pressure, the rub… the feeling of being hemmed in?
That is the “peace” that Jesus offers when we’re “in” him. Let me have some of that. COVID or otherwise.
Dave

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

From the fullness of his grace
We have all received one
Blessing
After another
John 1:16

Monday, July 6, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/22/20-7/6/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 2
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 12
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

God “Blessed” America!

This message is timeless from our beloved Chaplain, Dave Severance.

A few weeks ago (June 3rd update), I wrote about Gladys, who told a WWII story about nylons. Gladys had an indomitable spirit of joy that carried her through tough times. Each time I visited her, I came away inspired… so I took a closer look why this was so.

The answer I found was that she had learned to “count her blessings” despite loss and challenges. This might seem trite, but it is not. She had either learned or intuitively knew that remaining in her grief was not helpful. And focusing on the good that remained in her life brought joy… positive energy.

This energy attracted others to her; it was like a self-fulfilling “prophecy” that others would want to be part of her life… to give to and receive from her. So, her life was full of others who wanted to “bless” her.

Friends, I believe this is one of the “secrets” to living vibrantly! Yet… it is an age-old “secret.”

Psalm 103 speaks of renewing one’s youth “like the eagle’s.” It speaks of the Lord “who satisfies your desires with good things.” All this flows from a life of praise, to “not forget all his benefits.”

Counting our blessings… is the fountain of youth! The secret to living life fully. Perhaps there is never a better time than in our COVID-19 challenge to practice this time-honored bit of wisdom. Dave

Thank you for that timely reminder, Dave! And let us all count our blessings! We are grateful to return to communal dining, to open our beauty salon, to be COVID FREE, to have a team of Heroic staff, to have supportive & understanding families, to begin outdoor family visitation, a beautiful facility & lovely grounds, a heritage of Faith and service, and to live in the wonderful country we do. During the storm, it remains timeless that we should sing praises and gratefully pray God continues to bless and guide America.

We hope you had a wonderful weekend and we look forward to beginning the next phase of our “new normal” this week as we start outdoor family visitation…another reason to count our blessings!!

**** Call the front desk to reserve your time to visit outdoors with your loved one!!***

From the fullness of his grace
We have all received one
Blessing
After another
John 1:16

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/17/20-7/1/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 2
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 12
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We have received the complete testing data from the Indiana State Department of Health and our entire staff came back negative! Praise the Lord! A vigilant and dedicated staff! However, independent of that testing, another staff member self-reported the risk of being close to a family member who tested positive. So, we have one additional staff member who tested positive and is quarantined for 14 days.

Is Change Inevitable?

The news is flooded with new COVID-19 metrics, increases, risks, projections for the future. The fact of the matter is COVID-19 is flying around everywhere. The risk is simply increasing daily and higher than it has been in many weeks. We are aware.

So, our response? What do we need to change? At this point, we believe in what we have learned and put in to practice-and it has worked! We ARE COVID free! So, in the world of managing risk, we see no reason to change course at this time.

We will continue to move forward with our plans for outdoor family visitation. We are “rolling out” this program in a very controlled and measured way. Our intent is to learn what works and what does not, adapt and apply, and move forward. We envision expanding the frequency and timeslot options of visits moving forward with the always underlying assumption EVERYONE WILL REMAIN COMPLIANT.

That is a must. We will remain vigilant in protecting our most vulnerable at every turn.

The goal of this program is simple: to provide a low risk connection with your loved one. The response from family members and caregivers has been overwhelmingly positive and pure joy. We join them in our feelings of joy for this opportunity to restore “connections”.

We are exploring additional steps to monitor our staff with facial recognition, temperature, and data collection scanning technology to ensure we accurately capture and reflect what occurs daily. This should be valuable to us as we bolster our efforts to contain transmission from staff members and their social tracing.

So, in the face of increasing incidence of the COVID-19 virus, for today, we are staying the course. Lets pray our outside communities can slow the spread!

BEAUTY ABOUNDS

There are some stunning women and handsome men walking the hallways this week-LOOKING GOOD! Thank you to Cindy and Donna for remaining COVID free enabling them to return to their valued positions caring for the outward beauty of our residents. Communal dining, outdoor visits, and hair styling…that makes for a good time!! The beauty/barber shops in both buildings are up and running!! 😊

“God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Psalm 46:1

Monday, June 29, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/15/20-6/29/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 1
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 11
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

As mentioned previously, we just concluded full staff testing representatives from the Indiana Department of Health. We will be receiving results over the next few days.

Who Do We Believe?

For this “non expert” layperson, I am frequently challenged in this rapidly evolving world with this question, “who should I believe?” Who is telling us the “real” story regarding COVID-19? How can there be so many versions of “the truth”? MSNBC or Fox? Elkhart Truth or Goshen News? Are we back to Phase 1 or are we now in Phase 2? What does the future hold? How will we know when it is “over”? What does and does not work? What should I do? How much longer will my loved one be in lockdown? What is the risk of taking him/her out? On and on and on…oh, that I wish we had all the ironclad, guaranteed responses.

The one thing we have maintained throughout this entire journey is there is ONE who we place our unqualified trust and faith…and that is the Lord our God. Cliché you say. We suggest not. We have no question or doubt that He has been guiding us through this pandemic with His loving and patient hand. Through quarantines, positive cases, doubt, fear, time away from our families, and uncertainty. And NOW COVID free. He carries us through every day and keeps us focused and real about our current situation. He has the answers and we believe it will be revealed to us in His time, not ours. This gives us great comfort.

We too listen carefully, study everything we are sent, consult with govt entities and industry leaders, watch the news, read the newspapers, talk with our neighbors and families, and most importantly, pray. How does all of this translate to Hubbard Hill and how we manage and plan for the future? How can we speak honestly, lovingly, and hopefully with all our beloved families who are struggling with the “loss” of the connection with their loved one?

How? Because we believe in the One source which can always be counted on. He has been here all along and simply waits for us to ask for His guidance and love to sustain us until the pandemic is no more. We are all in this together-we believe that! We believe we have and will continue to receive His grace and mercy throughout.

So, that is who we believe. That is how we do it. Simple. That is why we are at peace in the storm.

Thanks be to God for the windows opening just a little bit so even a little normalcy peeks into our campus! Praise the Lord!

Friday, June 26, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/12/20-6/26/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 1
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 11
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

As mentioned previously, we just concluded full staff testing representatives from the Indiana Department of Health. We will be receiving results over the next few days.

OUTDOOR FAMILY VISITATION PLAN!!

At long last we can share our plan for Outdoor Family Visitation! We have a plan in place which enables all family members the opportunity for visitation with your loved ones while keeping everyone safe! We are sharing the most important details with you today, and you will receive greater detail and ask questions when you call to schedule your visit.

We understand the emotional toll isolation has taken on both our residents and families over the past 3 months and the anticipation and excitement are high! We ask you to understand that this is an experiment and lean in with us as we learn together how to navigate balancing distancing with our natural desire for physical connection with a loved one. This is new territory for all of us and we are grateful for the opportunity!

The visit:

Our visitation program setup is designed intentionally to ensure every resident/family has an opportunity to enjoy a visit.
- Each visit is 25 minutes in duration.
  - Visitors will be seated at opposite ends of 6-foot tables to maintain safe social distancing.
  - There is a 2-person limit per family and no children under 18 allowed.
  - Residents will be required to wear the provided mask and family members must bring their own mask to the visit and wear it at all times .
  - Come 5 minutes early to register and be screened for temp and symptoms
  - If you have a temperature or any COVID symptoms, you may NOT visit.

There is one visit per resident, not to exceed one visit every two weeks enabling all families to participate every two weeks.

How it Works:

Scheduling is on a first-come, first-served basis. Again, you will hear greater detail when you call to schedule your visit regarding the exact locations and specifics for each resident area. Here is how to schedule yours: CALL TO RESERVE YOUR TIME SLOT STARTING JULY 1^ST NOT before, please.

Call the Hubbard Hill front desk at 574-295-6260 to hear the first available days and times to visit your loved one depending on where they reside on campus.
- For families of residents living in ASSISTED LIVING:
  - Visitation days: Starting July 6
    - Mondays 1:00-4:30 p.m.; Wednesdays 9:00-11:30 a.m.; Fridays 9:00-11:30 a.m. (An evening visiting time is TBD)
- For families of residents living in HEALTHCARE:
  - Visitation days: Starting July 7
    - Tuesdays 1:00-4:30 p.m.; Tuesdays 5:30-7:00 p.m.; Thursdays 1:00-4:30 p.m.
- For families of residents living at the LIVING WISDOM CENTER:
  - Visitation days: Starting July 14
    - Tuesdays 10:00-11:30 a.m.; Thursdays 5:30-7:00 p.m.

This structure is the best way to utilize our gifted staff and volunteers while continuing to conduct normal business and care for our residents on a day to day basis. To sustain this visitation program and be successful together we must ALL do our jobs!

Our job:
- Maintain health and safety of residents and families during this program
- Keep the visits on schedule
- Ensure compliance of all state and federal regulatory guidelines
Your job:
- Be on time for your visit
- Leave your visit at the scheduled time
- Be compliant with all guidelines and staff requests or directives
- ENJOY YOUR VISIT WITH YOUR LOVED ONE!!

AND THERE IS MORE GOOD NEWS!

What is more important than communal dining? What is more important than seeing your family? Well of course, it is GETTING YOUR HAIR DONE!

The Beauty/Barber Shops are opening! The Indiana Dept. of Health has relaxed restrictions on the salons and our two licensed cosmetologists have been tested and we are awaiting results. Assuming negative test results, we will begin scheduling hair appointments next week! Who doesn’t naturally feel better after a good shampoo, haircut, styling? Just in time for family visitation!!

Thanks be to God for the windows opening just a little bit so even a little normalcy peeks into our campus! Praise the Lord!

Thursday, June 25, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/11/20-6/25/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 1
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 11
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

As mentioned previously, we just concluded full staff testing representatives from the Indiana Department of Health. We will be receiving results over the next few days.

Today, we are reporting one positive Healthcare staff member who is now in quarantine for 14 days at home and is asymptomatic. As a result, we are temporarily suspending communal dining in Healthcare as a precautionary measure. We want to err on being overly cautious and not taking unnecessary risk. It will be lifted as soon as we receive all results.

COMING SOON: OUTDOOR FAMILY VISITATION! Details Friday!

Hump Day on the Hill with Chaplain, Dave Severance

“Do not say, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’ For it is not wise to ask such questions.” Ecclesiastes 7:10

In a recent weekly video to all Missionary Church pastoral leaders, President Steve Jones chose this biblical passage to invite us to think about the wisdom of this thought. Why, we might ask, is this thought so foreign to us? What is the concern here? Comparing, with longing, the past to today? We, of course, long for the “normalcy” before all this Coronavirus stuff hit.

Looking into the past to review the many blessings of God that we have experienced, is not what the writer is talking about. It is perfectly ok to count the blessings from yesterdays.

What our biblical author is suggesting, is that comparing the “good old days” with today… carries a risk. It is the comparison that matters. So, Steve says, “Focusing on the ‘good old days’, implies the other side of the coin, which is that these are the ‘bad, new days’. If those were the ‘good and old days’, then these are the ‘bad and new days.’”

“Ironic isn’t it… the unwise question, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’… describes a previous happiness that makes us unhappy. It describes a wistfulness, a longing… that cannot be fulfilled… to go back to the way that things used to be. And so, it describes a previous happiness that has caused a current unhappiness.”

President Jones suggests this is a type of thinking “that ages us…. A long backward gaze is likely to accelerate the aging process in you in damaging ways.”

So… lean into today with gusto and thankfulness. Let us live in the present and count our blessings, so that we will find contentment for our souls… and stay young!

Dave

Proverbs 12:25

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”

The Good News: It costs nothing to speak kind words to others and ourselves.

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/10/20-6/24/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 0
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 10
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!! Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

And I want to underscore how wonderful it is we have not had a NEW positive COVID-19 test in the past weeks! That is a miracle and testament to the professionalism and vigilance of our wonderful Hubbard team! We will NOT take our foot off the pedal!

COMING SOON: OUTDOOR FAMILY VISITATION! Detail on Friday!

Hump Day on the Hill with Chaplain, Dave Severance

“Do not say, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’ For it is not wise to ask such questions.” Ecclesiastes 7:10

Looking into the past to review the many blessings of God that we’ve experienced, is not what the writer is talking about. It is perfectly ok to count the blessings from yesterdays.

President Jones suggests this is a type of thinking “that ages us…. A long backward gaze is likely to accelerate the aging process in you in damaging ways.”

So… lean into today with gusto and thankfulness. Let us live in the present and count our blessings, so that we will find contentment for our souls… and stay young!

Dave

Proverbs 12:25

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”

The Good News: It costs nothing to speak kind words to others and ourselves.

Monday, June 22, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/8/20-6/22/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 0
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 10
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!! Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

Additionally, while we tested our entire staff at the COVID-19 onset, our full staff will once again be tested by representatives of the Indiana Department of Health this Tuesday and Wednesday, as are all long term care staff members in the state. We have stated all along we will periodically test our staff throughout this journey and this due diligence is another way of locking the front AND back door to this virus.

HUBBARD HILL IS NOW COVID FREE!!

“Thrilled. Blessed. Thankful. Humbled. Relieved. Exhausted. Emotional. Plain HAPPY!”

These are all the words our entire team expressed late last week when we received the final double negative test on the final resident having COVID-19.

The relief and emotion were palpable when the last result came that we were all anxiously awaiting. The journey for the entire Hubbard Hill team has been rife with challenges, moving targets, trial, and error, exploring the unknown, push backs, regulatory changes sometimes by the hour, and disappointments. The one muscle which was on overdrive was creative thinking by our team. I put our team up against anyone in this country on our delivery in this area!

From the first diagnosis on Easter Sunday and our public announcement, Hubbard was put under the microscope as “the first” and/or “only” facility experiencing the COVID virus. As time played out, we were neither. We were the first to make public our current situation from that day forward for the benefit of our beloved families and caregivers-and as it turns out, the public at large.

Through it all, we dug down deep to pull from sources none of us knew existed. When we increased to 14 cases and were disheartened and stressed to our limits, He held us close and never abandoned us even in these dark hours. We see now His faithfulness through it all and for that we lovingly praise God!! We were crushed when we lost one resident, but with effort and perseverance beyond words, we got the virus contained and the remaining 13 residents are now COVID free!!

So, what does COVID free mean to you? To your loved ones? To the community? To our residents?

What it is DOES mean

As a practical matter, it means the staff and residents of the Living Wisdom Center (where COVID was centralized) may now come out of isolation and/or quarantine. No more! Tyvek suits are replaced with normal, comfortable attire for all and return to protocol consistent with the rest of the facility.
It means we are in a prevention-not containment mode.
We have the best of the best caring for our beloved residents.
It means we are proceeding with plans for outdoor family visitation which we will provide details later this week. Look on our website hubbardhill.org for information!
It means our entire campus is free of the virus and our need to take protective measures to avoid an outbreak have been relaxed but still within CDC guidelines which are still in place.
We have proven the virus can be contained, and in fact, treated successfully even among our most vulnerable.
We have learned innovative means of effectively addressing the virus.
It means our ability to anticipate and get ahead of the curve with resources, PPE’s, contingency plans, and rapid response techniques worked!
It means persistent vigilance by ALL parties and constant prayer are required!

What it does NOT mean

It does not mean Hubbard Hill or our community is out of the woods. We are COVID free today. As mentioned, our entire staff will be retested tomorrow and Wednesday and our hope and belief is we will continue COVID free, but as we are all acutely aware, staff are exposed in their personal lives and Elkhart County is a hotbed of COVID-19 so it takes extraordinary vigilance to ultimately win the war. We will confirm the testing results as they come back.
It does not mean CDC and ISDH guidance and directives have been relaxed as it relates to visitation (inside), social distancing, washing hands, wearing masks and other precautionary measures.
It does not mean we take our foot off the vigilance gas pedal.
It does not mean we see an end to the COVID-19 virus in the near term.

It does mean our faith is steadfast in our ability to deal with whatever comes our way with the loving hand of Jesus Christ pointing the way for us. Keep us and all residents, families, and caregivers in your prayers…they are keeping us afloat!

It means we are eternally grateful for your love, prayers, and support during this pandemic journey.

James 5:8 “You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord’s coming is near.

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Past 14 days data: 6/3/20-6/17/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- New staff members testing positive: 0
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- New residents testing positive: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March 2020

Total staff positive cases: 10
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!! Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

Additionally, while we tested our entire staff at the COVID-19 onset, our full staff will once again be tested by representatives of the Indiana Department of Health next Tuesday and Wednesday, as are all long term care staff members in the state. We have stated all along we will periodically test our staff throughout this journey and this due diligence is another way of locking the front AND back door to this virus.

And now for a VERY, VERY GOOD thing!

I could not be more pleased to announce we have been rigorously working on a plan for OUTDOOR FAMILY VISITATION and we are awfully close to sharing details! As you may recall, the Indiana Department of Health relaxed their visitation guidance to enable facilities to open visitation to outdoor experiences with residents. We were concerned the situation in Elkhart County may have presented a barrier to this opportunity, but we are proceeding with great joy and anticipation! This is a manageable risk as CDC data suggests less than 1% of virus transmissions occur outdoors.

However, it goes without saying this opportunity does not come without conditions. Visitation such as this must be controlled, consistent with CDC directives (e.g. masks must be worn, no physical contact, social distancing) and all other directives which are still in place. So, no hugs for Mom, but you will be right there in front of her sharing your love face to face at long last!

As I mentioned, we are finalizing details, and I will be sharing them very, very soon. With this announcement unfortunately comes with the decision not to hold an Independence Day event including families this year. We will be putting on our traditional fireworks display for residents only, but we are not in a position to safely host 200+ residents and 300+ family members at this time. The risk is simply too great. We hold great hope we will be able to host a family event in the coming months, but realistically not time yet.

But let us hold on to the blessing of seeing and being with our family members IN PERSON and the joy that will bring to EVERYONE! Look forward to seeing you soon! It is going to happen! 😊

James 5:8

“You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord’s coming is near.

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Past 14 days data: 5/27-6/10/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- Staff members testing positive: 0
- Staff member deaths: 0:
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- Residents testing positive: 0
- Resident deaths: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March

Total staff positive cases: 10
- Total resident positive cases: 14
- Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!! Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

That’s a good thing!

Well under the category of good things, the return of communal dining is a GREAT thing! So good to have residents able to carefully gather to reintroduce how to dine together safely and begin to return to a degree of normal. It went so well, to quote Director, Culinary Services, Jason Oppenheim, “there were a whole lot of very happy people!” And why shouldn’t there be? Thanks be to God for restoration of such a critical piece of our LIVING experience! 😉

…and not such a good thing ☹

The COVID-19 spread in Elkhart County is now reported to have increased 350% between May 1 and May 31^st following the opening of the county. Elkhart County Commissioner, Mike Yoder has stated, “as a result, local officials will likely delay moving the county to the next phase of Indiana’s Back on Track plan if these numbers do not improve.”

Because of the attention on Elkhart County, “we are at risk of them taking action to shut us down again. He went on to say, “he has not heard directly from state officials in this regard, but there is precedent for the move. Governor Eric Holcomb has exempted Marion, Cass, and Lake counties from previous stages of reopening because of their rate of infections.

What does that mean to Hubbard Hill? A LOT! As the county goes, so goes Hubbard Hill. So please do not reduce your compliance to COVID-19 prevention protocols. If 1 in 5 Elkhart County residents has COVID-19 in an asymptomatic or symptomatic state, our risk also increases.

Our ability to stage events will certainly be compromised in the current environment, necessitating our approach to shift focus to staff and residents, keeping all other persons away from our campus. Sadly, we do not have control of our own destiny until Elkhart County regains control of theirs. We will continue to keep you apprised of relevant updates.

James 5:8

“You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord’s coming is near.

Monday, June 8, 2020

Past 14 days data: 5/25-6/8/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- Staff members testing positive: 0
- Staff member deaths: 0:
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- Residents testing positive: 0
- Resident deaths: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March

Total staff positive cases: 10
- Total resident positive cases: 14
  - Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!! Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

There is a reason for everything

Alert!! Communal dining returns tomorrow!!! Let us all breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate seeing our wonderful residents, staff, and dietary team reunited together! As we have said, a small, but incredibly significant return to the new normal!! Please adhere to all protocols which have been put in place to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being! Bon appetite!!

We have been consistent in our precautionary warnings regarding families and visitors coming to Hubbard Hill and attempting to visit their loved ones in various ways. Please do not attempt to visit your family members as we are preparing new approaches to visitation. Unfortunately, we have a case illustrating what can happen when families take matters into their own hands.

We have recently had a family visit their loved one, at their apartment window and opened the window and had contact. Consequently, the resident has been placed in quarantine to safeguard themselves, other residents, and staff members. This is a significant violation of CDC guidelines and directives which are only for our communal safety. Please be reminded also of the current Elkhart County COVID-19 status with an alarmingly high incidence of the virus.

We are so very thankful families and residents have all been very patient and we ask your continued patience as we move towards visitation options. This too shall pass 😉

James 5:8

“You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord’s coming is near.

Friday, June 5, 2020

Past 14 days data: 5/22-6/5/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- Staff members testing positive: 0
- Staff member deaths: 0:
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- Residents testing positive: 0
- Resident deaths: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March

Total staff positive cases: 10
Total resident positive cases: 14
Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!! Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

Indiana Department of Health: Outdoor Family Visitation at Long-term Care Facilities

We received this latest guidance yesterday afternoon from the Indiana Department of Health regarding relaxing outdoor family visitation at long term care facilities. Some of you may have heard about it on the news. We are hopeful and optimistic this is yet another step forward in our return to “the new normal”. However positive this may appear, there are a number of facility, resident, and visitor criteria which must be met enabling this guidance to come to life.

Having said that, the largest potential obstacle we face is causally linked to what we published on June 2, (where you may read complete text) excerpts from which are as follows:

Elkhart County leaders are asking leaders to step up their efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 before the economy is shut down again.

‘…The letter states Indiana is decreasing the percentage of new positive cases in comparison to the number of tests given. “The temporary shut down and actions of people as we open up seem to have been successful statewide. Our county tells a different story. In the past week, Elkhart County received national attention when it became the 10th most likely in the entire country to have the next COVID-19 outbreak, based on data collected by the New York Times. This has since changed and we are no longer on the high end of the list, but only because other counties are doing worse.

“As of (Monday), we expect to see our total number of cases double every 12.5 days. Our county is testing a significant number more people than we have in the past which means our total number of positive cases will rise. The problem is our percentage of positive tests to total tests given is rising dramatically. This shows that we have a spread issue. The first couple of months we saw a daily positive test percentage of 4% to 9%. Since the economy has reopened, we have seen that jump to 16%, and the last week the percentages of positive tests rose to 20% to 25%. By comparison, Indiana dropped from 18% to the current 7.5% daily positives.

…it continues, “Since we appeared on the national list, state and federal agencies have started looking closer at Elkhart County and we are at risk of them taking action to shut us down again. The CDC, OSHA, State Board of Health, or the Governor could order Elkhart County to again stay home entirely if we don’t act now to slow the spread again” …

Why is this a potential obstacle to Hubbard Hill participating in the outdoor family visitation? Because the first criterion for participation listed by the IDOH is as follows:

County Criteria: Communal spread of COVID in the community must be controlled. This means the county of the facility must have successfully transitioned past the Indiana Back on Track Stage 2 criteria. Elkhart County is currently in a virus spread as stated above.

We are currently amid internal discussions regarding how we might implement this program. At the same time, have outreached to local health and governmental leadership seeking input on the status of Elkhart County as it pertains to this guidance. This could be the mitigating factor in our ability to open outdoor family visitation.

We are hopeful there will be a way forward and are concurrently completing other means of safely providing visitation options which safeguard residents, families, and staff.

We will, as always, provide updates as they become available. At this time, cannot commit to anything until we know more about Elkhart County’s ability to transition past stage 2 criteria.

John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

The Good News: The peace we experience from our faith in Jesus surpasses any temporary peace the world can give; it can ease your deepest fears and soothe your troubled heart.

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Past 14 days data: 5/20-6/3/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- Staff members testing positive: 0
- Staff member deaths: 0:
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- Residents testing positive: 0
- Resident deaths: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March

Total staff positive cases: 10
- Total resident positive cases: 14
  - Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

We are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!! Also, what is required by the CDC relative to reporting.

Hump Day on the Hill with Chaplain Dave Severance

When I first met Gladys, she was 88 years old, and I share this story with her permission. I met her in 1997 when I was a home care chaplain. She had a slew of health challenges that had sent her to the hospital and back. Her ability to remain in her home was tenuous. And even more significantly, her husband of many years had died that past year.

I was struck by the healthy way she was integrating all of this. Yes, she cried when she talked about the death of her husband, and fully faced the despair that was hers. But she found the strength to laugh as well… to tell the stories about him that made him special to her, to revel in the supportive relationship she had with her children and grandchildren, to view her own life with humor and hope.

She told a WWII story of how as a young woman in South Bend (IN), she faced one of the hardships of war… living without nylons! Many things were rationed then, including those… the purchase of which became an obsession to her. She saved her money and her “ticket” to buy a pair, boarded a bus to the downtown department store, bought the nylons and put them on in the dressing room. On her return trip, as she got off the bus, she fainted (the first hint that diabetes would be part of her journey). She recalls, “The bus driver and others were gathered around when I came to. They were shouting, ‘Stand back; give her some air…’ and asking, ‘Are you alright? Are you alright?’”

As she told this part of the story, she was chuckling with an infectious laugh, and said, “All I could think about was my new pair of nylons, and so I asked, ‘Forget about me. Are my nylons alright?’” Alas, she had run them.

John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

The Good News: The peace we experience from our faith in Jesus surpasses any temporary peace the world can give; it can ease your deepest fears and soothe your troubled heart.

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Past 14 days data: 5/19-6/2/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- Staff members testing positive: 0
- Staff member deaths: 0:
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- Residents testing positive: 0
- Resident deaths: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March

Total staff positive cases: 10
- Total resident positive cases: 14
  - Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

As the numbers have grown and increased in complexity, we have opted to simplify and provide what has been specifically directed by the CDC. So, we are reporting new positive cases over the past 14 days followed by the aggregate total of positive cases since we began reporting in March. These are the figures of most interest as it reflects where we have been and where we are-which is in containment!!

And Here We Are…an advisory to families and caregivers

(Yesterday, we posted about a report from the New York Times regarding Elkhart County being #10 on the national list of potential outbreak hotspots. Today, we see and hear our community leadership validating the premise that Elkhart County is at risk. A diverse group of county leadership has coalesced and delivered a very stern message to the community, adhere to guidelines or Elkhart County runs the risk of being shut down by state and federal regulatory agencies.) Their remarks and warnings follow:

“Elkhart County leaders are asking leaders to step up their efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 before the economy is shut down again.

In a letter to the Elkhart County business community, the county’s three mayors, Jeremy Stutsman (Goshen), Rod Roberson (Elkhart) and Phil Jenkins (Nappanee); county commissioners Frank Lucchese, Suzie Weirich and Mike Yoder; and the presidents of the Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation Nick Kieffer, Levon Johnson, Jeff Kitson and Chris Stager, implored businesses to step up control efforts.

“We need to not allow anyone outside Elkhart County to control our ability to manage this pandemic,” the letter reads. “We will work with each and every one of you to support your efforts. We just ask that you stand beside us as well. We are all in this together.”

The letter, which can be read in full online, cites the increasing number of people who are becoming infected with the novel coronavirus as the reason that business leaders need to continue working together to slow the spread.

“We expected a peak in mid-May in northern Indiana, but numbers in the past week in particular are troubling,” the letter reads. “As of June 1, Elkhart County had a total of 1,322 positive cases from 9,849 tested, and 28 people have died from the coronavirus.”

The letter states Indiana is decreasing the percentage of new positive cases in comparison to the number of tests given. “The temporary shut down and actions of people as we open up seem to have been successful statewide. Our county tells a different story. In the past week, Elkhart County received national attention when it became the 10th most likely in the entire country to have the next COVID-19 outbreak, based on data collected by the New York Times. This has since changed and we are no longer on the high end of the list, but only because other counties are doing worse.

“If you look at Indiana’s data of positive cases by age, it is clear people ages 20 to 60 are the ones spreading the virus. This is us and this is our work force. As we have returned to work, the number of people who are getting sick is growing. Since we appeared on the national list, state and federal agencies have started looking closer at Elkhart County and we are at risk of them taking action to shut us down again. The CDC, OSHA, State Board of Health, or the Governor could order Elkhart County to again stay home entirely if we don’t act now to slow the spread again. The best solution for all of us is to do this voluntarily rather than be told to shut down. We cannot afford to shut down again if we can avoid it, but we can afford to take the time to reinforce our efforts and precautions. Companies with outbreaks have suffered work shut-downs, morale issues and community embarrassment.”

The letter states people should continue to social distance, wear masks and wash their hands, saying these practices are “just as essential now as they have been over the past two months. If we become complacent and relax our personal or workplace protocols and behaviors, we could see the disease spread in even more deadly ways.

“These are not fun times, but we can take steps to slow the spread of the virus and keep our community safer. We need to work together, possibly slow output, and both implement and enforce safe practices. We are now seeing record volumes of COVID-19 patients in our Urgent Care facilities and our hospitals have more patients than ever due to COVID-19.

“We are a team here in Elkhart County. We all rely on the other. In the time of a pandemic, the actions of a few can have a large effect on all of us, our health and our economy.”

Also, issuing a statement to residents Monday was Elkhart County Health Officer Dr. Lydia Mertz.

“As many of you know, Elkhart County is currently seeing an increase in the number of positive test results for COVID-19. Although some of that is because of the rise in the number of tests we have been able to do, that is not my only concern. As the state has opened up, the increased activities at work and other settings have allowed for the spread of the virus. We need to sustain significant changes in how we go about our everyday lives for the foreseeable future.

We at Hubbard Hill concur and are doubling down on our precautionary measures and issuing a strong advisory to our entire staff regarding their whereabouts in the community, their families, and others close to them. We do not take this situation lightly and will fully continue to safeguard our residents and staff.

Monday, June 1, 2020

Past 14 days data: 5/18-6/1/20

Staff positive cases as of this posting:
- Staff members testing positive: 0
- Staff member deaths: 0:
Resident positive cases as of this posting:
- Residents testing positive: 0
- Resident deaths: 0

Total Positive Cases/Deaths Since Covid-19 Reporting Began: March

Total staff positive cases: 10
- Total resident positive cases: 14
- Total deaths: 1

COVID Cases

Where do we go from here?

First, since things have stabilized a bit, we are now planning on posting our Covid-19 update every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. If new guidance, directives, or a change in status at Hubbard Hill occurs, we will of course report it in real-time. As we are in containment mode, there is not sufficient new information to support a daily update. We hope you understand.

So, with every day, a new adventure in our world, one must ask, “where do we go from here?”. With each passing day, the news never ceases to astound. We continue to do what we do and never cease praying.

Certainly, we are keeping our eyes on the happenings in our country and the potential implications of virus spread and an unanticipated spike in cases. At this point, we know what you know. When we receive information or new guidance’s from our official or regulatory sources that impact Hubbard Hill, we will let you know. We have said it often enough, social distancing, wearing masks, washing your hands, keep your hands away from your face, restraining from any direct contact …none of that has changed.

Medical experts warn of the continued highly contagious nature of the virus. It appears the estimated incidence of asymptomatic cases has increased from 4 in 10 to 8 in 10. Projections like these give us cause for concern. Even at half, still a stiff warning.

Many of you may have heard on the local news or read the New York Times citation that Elkhart County is one of the top emerging “hot spots” for the Covid-19 virus in the country. Reports such as these need to be viewed with great caution as there are countless variables that may or may not contribute to such a projection. Here is the statement from the Elkhart County Department of Health regarding this report:

The Elkhart County Incident Command team released a statement concerning the New York Times ranking Elkhart County as 10th in the nation for being the next possible COVID-19 outbreak area.

The statement reads: “This may be alarming to many of you and not so much for others. The issue we are seeing is that as businesses open up and people are out and about, we see an increase in positive cases. This could make us one of the next outbreak locations. To combat this, we need to continue to remind you and others that you need to wash your hands often, avoid close contact, cover your mouth and nose with a face cover when around others, cover your coughs and sneezes, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and monitor your symptoms.”

As a reminder of how to keep yourself and others safe, the Incident Command team writes that people should keep social distancing — “nothing beats 6 feet.”

“Your actions do affect others, especially those that are 65 and older,” the release reads. “Please take precautions for yourself and others. Your community thanks you!”

Indiana Department of Health Covid-19 data as of 5/31/20:

Elkhart County:

Positive cases: 1322
Deaths: 28
Tested: 10033

St. Joseph County:

Positive cases: 1286
Deaths: 34
Tested: 13503

And we would add…please behave as if you have covid and you don’t want to share it with others

Thursday, May 28, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (5/14/20-5/28/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 208
- Staff testing negative: 196
- Staff members testing positive: 5
- Staff testing pending: 7
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 142
- Residents testing negative: 129
- Residents testing positive: 7
- Resident testing pending: 0
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 341
- Total persons testing negative: 324
- Total persons testing positive: 12
- Total persons testing pending: 5
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There was 1 resident testing negative, and 7 residents retested. 2 new staff members tested, 7 pending results. Please note: these figures represent all testing, this can include staff or residents who are retested as a result of contact tracing to a person who has exhibited signs or symptoms as a preventative measure, or retesting a person who is no longer presenting signs or symptoms to confirm negative status. These figures no longer represent “new” cases only.

How is Hubbard Hill doing comparatively?

While we do not measure our progress or success compared with any other healthcare facility, I think it bears clarifying our progress and how we arrived here.

To clarify, as we have mentioned on several occasions, we were so blessed to receive testing kits early on in this crisis sufficient to test our entire campus- staff and residents. We were able to test 373 people by May 4^th and had a firm grasp on the scope of the virus on our campus. This was several weeks prior to the CDC directive that all health facilities should follow suit. Recall, we began posting our progress and status from the beginning in March with our first positive diagnosis on Easter Sunday. From that moment, we have had a cumulative total of 16 positive cases.

Because we reported our early positive results in real-time, it gave the appearance Hubbard Hill may have been the only Elkhart facility with COVID, which has never been the case, but as you have heard in the media, transparency is not the norm in our business. A noteworthy fact is that per the ISDH, an “outbreak” is defined as more than 10% of your population. Our positive cases have been in the low single digits, which is miraculous compared to the industry averages. Our cases were contained to a part of our Living Wisdom Center for Dementia Care, and let me say, COVID-19 and dementia is not a good combination. Fast forward, we successfully contained the virus, and sadly have lost one resident.

The fact that we were early adapters in this virus was both a blessing and a curse as our results were the first “reported” Elkhart community incidence. Sadly, you are now aware that cases are everywhere and this insidious virus has hit senior care facilities hard. For 7 weeks now, we have been successfully managing the cases in the Living Wisdom Center, and with the Lord’s help will bring it to an end soon. That is our hope and expectation. Of the original 16 cases, 6 remain positive and no new cases have occurred – Praise God!

16 is too many. However, given what you and I have seen nationally and globally since this journey began, we feel blessed with our staff’s commitment to containment and the residents’ cooperation in adhering to safety guidelines. It is working!!

We thought it important to share our perspective to help your understanding of how we are doing.

Hump Day on the Hill with Chaplain Dave Severance (one day removed 😉)

I miss my daughter, Danielle and her husband, Aaron. They live in Fort Wayne and have been married for less than a year. COVID-19 is the reason we have not seen them.

The same is true for many of you and your loved ones. The phone, Facetime, Duo, Skype, YouTube… etc. are not the same, are they? Nothing like hugging, smiling face to face. The richness of that personal touch. What is it? …absence makes the heart grow fonder?

Yet, there is a gift here. What did people do separated by distance before this technology? Handwritten letters had to suffice. Aren’t we even more grateful for technology’s reach?

And how much more will we value their presence when we, once again, may feel their faces against ours? Could this be a lesson in practicing presence? To treasure each, and every moment that comes into our lives. Such mindfulness might even carry us until that day of personal touch arrives.

“I have come that you may have life and that you may have it abundantly.” (Jesus)

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (5/13/20-5/27/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 206
- Staff testing negative: 196
- Staff members testing positive: 5
- Staff testing pending: 5
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 135
- Residents testing negative: 128
- Residents testing positive: 7
- Resident testing pending: 0
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 341
- Total persons testing negative: 324
- Total persons testing positive: 12
- Total persons testing pending: 5
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There were 2 residents pending who are negative. And 10 new staff members tested, 5 negative, 5 pending results. Please note: these figures represent all testing, this can include staff or residents which are retested as a result of contact tracing to a person which has exhibited signs or symptoms as a preventative measure, or retesting a person who is no longer presenting signs or symptoms to confirm negative status. These figures no longer represent “new” cases only.

CHOW CHOW CHOW!!!!

We are incredibly happy to announce what so many have been waiting for! We learned this week the CMS has relaxed their stance on communal dining! Communal dining returns!!

The CMS statement is as follows: “We recognize the impact of social isolation on residents and the increased staffing requirements for resident in-room dining only. Therefore, we agree that communal dining can occur with the following guidelines:

No active (involving residents still in transmission-based precautions) cases of COVID-19 in the facility for at least 14 days.
Can adhere to social distancing, such as being seated at separate tables at least six feet apart.
Environmental cleaning of the dining area occurs before and after each group comes to the dining area
Residents should be offered hand hygiene before dining and after returning to their rooms.
Residents should not share food, drinks, or other personal items during dining.
Caregivers in the dining area should wear masks and perform hand hygiene before assisting residents to eat and between each resident that they assist.
Caregivers should perform hand hygiene after leaving the dining area or the resident’s room if assisting them there.

The operative word is “relaxed” but not free from the above ongoing guidance. As such, we are in the process of retooling our enhanced menu which will significantly increase the menu options from in-room dining! Our plan is to open communal dining on Tuesday, June 9^th when we restore compliant dining room set-up and our new menu preparation is complete.

Per the CMS, we must continue to enforce social distancing leaving 6 feet between tables and no more than 1-2 persons per table. Again, our ability to restore communal dining is contingent upon our ability to prevent a positive COVID-19 case. In other words, we must keep our facility COVID-19 free!

Join us in halleluiah Chorus! With this important social event of the day returning, we are one more step towards the new normal! We will take our “wins” when we get them, and this is a HUGE win! Looking forward to seeing all your smiling (and relieved!) faces when we reopen on Tuesday, June 9^th!!

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Friday, May 22, 2020

Past 14 Days Data (5/8/20-5/22/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 199
- Staff testing negative: 191
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 1
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 130
- Residents testing negative: 126
- Residents testing positive: 7
- Resident testing pending: 2
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 329
- Total persons testing negative: 317
- Total persons testing positive: 11
- Total persons testing pending: 3
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There were 2 residents testing negative and 1 new staff member pending results. Please note: these figures represent all testing, this can include staff or residents who are retested as a result of contact tracing to a person who has exhibited signs or symptoms as a preventative measure, or retesting a person who is no longer presenting signs or symptoms to confirm negative status. These figures no longer represent “new” cases only.

Baby Steps

Many of you may have heard from your loved ones or saw in the media we took a “baby step” yesterday by partnering with LoveWay for a miniature horse visitation to our facility. LoveWay is a Premier PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) accredited equestrian center.

To say it was a success would be an understatement! It was a ‘life-injecting’ moment for our residents on many levels, being outdoors, visiting with the miniature horses, and just having a good time. Animals, as we all know, have tremendous therapeutic value for all people!

The program is a piece of our Resident Engagement initiative, which is ongoing, but critically important during this crisis. The event was CDC compliant and integrated some of the new guidance as well. Every single person involved was wearing a mask, we had over 25 staff members involved monitoring the event, social distancing, and hand sanitizing exiting and entering the facility.

The LoveWay organization was pre-screened for CDC compliance and had not visited any other facility during this crisis. So, in our risk assessment model, this was a relatively low-risk event. New CDC contact guidance has relaxed guidelines as it relates to surface transmission this week. Outdoor events are the only multi-resident activities approved at this time and are CDC approved-with contact distancing, face masks, hand washing and all other compliance directives.

Before the questions begin, let me be clear. This was a “resident only” controlled event as we know every resident present has tested negative to COVID-19 as have staff. This was a controlled test to see how it would go. It went well. So, as we announced earlier, our July 11^th Independence celebration planning continues and we will keep you apprised.

We have used the term, “shedding the virus”. This term refers to the process for a COVID-19 case to run its course as the body “sheds the virus” and the individual is no longer has enough virus in their system to test positive. This clinical exercise is still a work in process to fully understand the differences between individuals and other dynamics which may impact the shedding process and timing.

Again, we have already received phone calls regarding Memorial Day picnics, outdoor meals with family members and again, these activities are NOT approved by the CDC at this time. We are moving carefully and methodically forward while keeping our families and residents’ safety at the forefront. We are close to creating an easy family connection approach by enabling conversation between families through the glass and a speaker to chat live via an intercom system. Again, we will keep you updated as we finalize. Of course, the majority of you are already utilizing other digital media and cell phones, but we hope to creatively enhance connection until all restrictions are finally lifted.

Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend and know we will be caring for your loved ones and ensuring they too celebrate this wonderful day of honor. We mentioned our team and their exhaustion. This is the first weekend since Easter we could even conceive of “celebrating” and we are! God Bless You!

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (5/7/20-5/21/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 198
- Staff testing negative: 190
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 4
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 130
- Residents testing negative: 124
- Residents testing positive: 7
- Resident testing pending: 2
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 328
- Total persons testing negative: 314
- Total persons testing positive: 11
- Total persons testing pending: 6
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There were 4 staff members testing negative and 4 staff members pending results. There were 4 resident retest results: 1 negative, 1 positive, and 2 pending. Please note: these figures represent all testing, this can include staff or residents who are retested as a result of contact tracing to a person who has exhibited signs or symptoms as a preventative measure, or retesting a person who is no longer presenting signs or symptoms to confirm negative status. These figures no longer represent “new” cases only.

How we do not let our guard down

We have been asked how it is possible to sustain our standard of excellence in a less than excellent situation. It is challenging to say the least. Tired warriors- very tired, but no time to rest. We can all quickly recount those moments in our lives when we were bone-tired, but needed to press on though we weren’t sure if we had any more to give. This is one of those times for our entire team.

But the team endures. This situation calls for an extraordinary degree of trust and respect for one another. At the same time, when we push our limits trying to find solutions every single day, we also must push each other. That is also an art. Who wants to hear “there is another way” or “there may be a better way” when you are dead on your feet tired? Not me! 😊 Choosing “the path less traveled” can be a challenge in and of itself, but putting our trust in each other and in turn, giving it over to our Lord and Savior. That is what keeps us going and stopping us from letting our guard down.

Making unpopular decisions in a very unpopular pandemic takes guts. These uncharted waters have called upon each of us to dig deeper for an extended time while overcoming our own fears in the process. I am not complaining. I think it is good for all to know the realty our team faces so you may be inspired and encouraged in all you face. It is a thing of beauty to watch a teammate who looks so tired they could drop, dig down to places they did not even know existed and find more umph to move forward. That my friends is a God thing…make no mistake about it. With Him alongside us, anything is possible. We have already witnessed that.

We are asked how everyone is doing…now you know. Remarkably well…but not alone. For that we are so grateful! We know you are praying for us as we continually experience God’s grace and mercy when we need it most. So onward, with our guard steadfast and intact.

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (5/6/20-5/20/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 198
- testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 6
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 130
- Residents testing negative: 123
- Residents testing positive: 7
- Resident testing pending: 0
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 328
- Total persons testing negative: 309
- Total persons testing positive: 11
- Total persons testing pending: 6
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Testing Results

There were 2 more new staff members tested and 1 negative resident result. Please note: these figures represent all testing, this can include staff or residents who are retested as a result of contact tracing to a person who has exhibited signs or symptoms as a preventative measure, or retesting a person who is no longer presenting signs or symptoms to confirm negative status. These figures no longer represent “new” cases only.

The path to “open for business”

As we shared yesterday, we have received an abundance of new directives and guidance from government and regulatory agencies. Of course, one key topic which is top of mind for all of you (and us!) is when and how will we reopen?

Part of the guidance received yesterday from the CDC addresses an emerging plan enabling facilities to reopen for business. The plans are rife with stipulations, benchmarks, and conditions which must be met prior to reopening. Even so, we felt it important to let you know we are at least in the dialog!!

We are working through all this documentation to clarify, debunk myths, understand the benchmarks, and ultimately be totally clear when, what and how this translates to Hubbard Hill specifically. As you can imagine, all States and all facilities are not at the same place in their journey, or in their compliance. So, we need absolute clarity where we fall in that spectrum according to the guidelines.

This will take more time and all healthcare settings will always be lagging behind what is occurring in the general public relative to reopening. Again, we share to give you a glimmer of hope, not set unrealistic expectations. This will not look in any way like what you are seeing and hearing regarding the general public. Still, Hopeful… and progress is being made.

Hump Day on the Hill, with Chaplain Dave Severance

When I was in seminary, I took this unforgettable class… “Grief, loss, death, and dying.” It was unlike any learning I had ever experienced. For example, our instructor asked us each to write our own obituary, and then in our small groups, have it read by someone else as we lay either on the floor or on a couch… as if our death was being mourned. It was a profound experience to both write and then have the reading of our obit enacted.

Evidence Paul’s reference to “others… who have no hope” would be the stoics. Stoics would not allow their emotions to rise… would deflect, suppress, stuff them in any way possible to “remain above the fray.” That is how you survive loss.

With this reference point in mind, Paul’s teaching… rather than directing his readers to stuff their emotions… is actually inviting them to fully explore the depth of their loss… because ultimately, they are being upheld by someone greater than themselves. “Let it out,” would be the teaching. This is certainly in line with Jesus’ own approach to loss; note his Beatitude… “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” And would add, all our losses deserve to be recognized

In my study of human need in the time of loss, I have come to believe that exploring our grief is the healthiest way to deal with loss.

The point of all this is to say that all of us together in this pandemic have experienced huge losses, each of which deserves to be grieved. Only when we sit with them can we move from the “what ifs” of our fears to the “even ifs” of our hope. Then the hope will be grounded in the reality of our day.

Those hopes will be the focus of future thoughts.

Dave

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (5/5/20-5/19/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 196
- testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 6
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 130
- Residents testing negative: 122
- Residents testing positive: 7
- Resident testing pending: 2
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 326
- Total persons testing negative: 308
- Total persons testing positive: 11
- Total persons testing pending: 6
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

Covid Cases

There were 2 new staff members tested and 2 negative staff results. There was one resident tested to facilitate a move. Please note: these figures represent all testing, this can include staff or residents which are retested as a result of contact tracing to a person which has exhibited signs or symptoms as a preventative measure, or retesting a person who is no longer presenting signs or symptoms to confirm negative status. These figures no longer represent “new” cases only.

The evolving regulatory door

When you were in school, did you ever have a nightmare that you studied so hard for a test, went to school and all the questions were changed for the test? Well, it is not newsworthy to share the COVID-19 landscape is now shifting moment by moment-not day by day. And that is the way it feels!

We have received more new guidance from HSS (Department of Health and Human Services), CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services), the Department of Treasury, the Small Business Administration, and the Indiana Department of Health. All have provided guidance and specificity as to what we may do, how we do it, and to ensure compliance. You may have heard about these on the news, but we are in the process of digesting all the vast directives and are now trying to gain an understanding and clearly defining the implications to Hubbard Hill, our community, state and industry. Make no mistake, there are changes which are positive and a step in the right direction. 😉

We will be reporting the information which is most relevant to you as soon as we are able with clarity.

In this environment, we are seeking to make progress daily toward the new normal and the end of this crisis. From our mouths to God’s ears…and in His time, not ours.

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Monday, May 18, 2020

Past 14 Days Data (5/4/20-5/18/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 194
- Staff members testing negative: 184
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 6
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 121
- Residents testing negative: 122
- Residents testing positive: 7
- Resident testing pending: 1
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 315
- Total persons testing negative: 306
- Total persons testing positive: 11
- Total persons testing pending: 7
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There were 5 new staff members tested today which now total 6 pending. 3 negative staff results, 0 positive staff members. 5 residents tested negative and 3 positives, with one pending. Please note: these figures represent all testing, this can include staff or residents who are retested as a result of contact tracing to a person who has exhibited signs or symptoms as a preventative measure, or retesting a person who is no longer presenting signs or symptoms to confirm negative status. These figures no longer represent “new” cases only.

How DO we keep our residents engaged, connected, happy during this crisis?

In an interview with our great partners at Netsmart this morning, two of our superstar Wellness team shared the art of engagement during this COVID crisis. And yes, it IS art, not a science! Our residents are people: family members, wives, husbands, grandmas, grandpas, daughters, sons, neighbors, Sunday School members, and God’s children. We care for these people. There is no formula for this, no book, no webinar… simply heart, soul, spirit, compassion, dedication, creativity, ingenuity, and love. There is no difference in how they practice their art during this crisis, only a change in circumstance.

How do we know art mirrors life? As we began this journey, they discovered who among residents had I-phones to coordinate Facetime calls with families and friends and made it happen. They lend their own personal I-phones when that cannot happen. Schedule times for Skype calls-and make it happen. Schedule Zoom conversations across the country-and make it happen. Even in the early hours of the morning. Get the daily letter from a daughter who lost her mother during this crisis from the mail, take it to her father, open it, read it to him, and lovingly and gently place it back in the envelope as he wishes. Coordinate “COVID compliant” birthday events with family members to ensure continuity and know they are still missed and loved. Plan a Zoom call with a Sunday School class so as not to miss out.

…Plan and implement “hallway” Bingo to ensure residents maintain their favorite “sport”! Conduct a variety of virtual exercise programs on their in-room televisions via the Hubbard Hill network to keep them healthy and active. Keep cardio drums with residents so they are ready for the virtual program and maintain their beat! Arrange for a daughter to bring Wendy’s to her mother as she always has and has lunch with her since her daughter cannot. Fill the pizza ‘fix’ by driving to Pizza Hut to purchase personal pizzas for our dear ones. Stock and roll the ‘snack’ cart throughout the facility so our neighbors have treats available to them. Accept our circumstance and create a makeshift fun glamour day for our ladies who desperately miss their hair appointments. Not to mention mobile manicures. Keeping green by providing and helping them grow spider plants in their rooms. Firsthand nature!

Make animal toys for the Elkhart County Animal Shelter…for our furry friends. When the sun shines, take them outside to the beautiful Angel Garden to commune with nature. Take them to our General Store for a shopping trip for odds and ends. Conduct prayer 1 on 1’s to sustain their spirit and spiritual growth. Coordinate a church family drive-by wave to let our neighbors know they are not forgotten. Not to mention virtual church services and inspirational messages throughout the week.

Most importantly, they pay attention. This is not a change in the way things are done. This gifted staff pays attention not just in a crisis-but makes it their business to intimately KNOW each resident well. Know their needs and anticipate them. Remember that only as an integrated team does this work. Exercise the humility to understand and embrace the fact that nothing stays the same on a day to day basis. They listen, know, and respond to needs. They are hands-on and understand it is ALL about how they make our residents feel…and meet them where they are every day, 7 days a week. They do not “take care” of them…they minister to them. What a wonderful calling it is. They are not “activities” professionals, they are called “Wellness” for a reason. And we are so blessed as are those whose wellness is their singular focus and passion. We can assure you; it is NOT the devil in the details, but our Lord Jesus Christ! Thank you, Tim, Teresa, Alice, Mary, and Cindy for serving so graciously and humbly… 😊

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Friday, May 15, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (5/1/20-5/15/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 189
- Staff members testing negative: 181
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 4
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 121
- Residents testing negative: 117
- Residents testing positive: 4
- Resident testing pending: 0
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 310
- Total persons testing negative: 298
- Total persons testing positive: 8
- Total persons testing pending: 4
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There were 2 new staff members tested today!! We await results for 2 staff members from previous testing.

Can we talk about the future? 😊

Why? Because that is one thing, we know for certain in a world of constantly changing predictions, models, warnings, directives, yes you can, no you cannot …we ARE going to have a future!!!!

Much like sports leagues and associations, we too are cautiously looking to the future and making contingency plans. We are looking at the future not in terms of IF we will be doing things, but when and how. And just the process of looking into the future in a quasi-normal way is invigorating!! And makes us very hopeful!!

So, first on our planning schedule is the announcement we WILL be having our annual patriotic July celebration scheduled today for July 11^th, with fireworks!!!!! However, just like sports leagues, these plans are contingent upon community compliance with the reopening of our State outlined by Governor Holcomb and CDC directives. If COVID cases begin to spike for any reason, plan B will be in play for the event. Details of how and who this will involve are incomplete at this time and we will keep you apprised. One thing is certain if we do not plan it, it will not happen!

We are also making future contingency plans for our campus. We are looking at 3 COVID impact and timing scenarios for the future ranging from optimistic to pessimistic. So, the fact we have the time to consider the future is a step in the right direction!!! A nice change from only living moment to moment.

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Thursday, May 14, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (4/30/20-5/14/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 187
- Staff members testing negative: 179
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 3
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 121
- Residents testing negative: 116
- Residents testing positive: 4
- Resident testing pending: 1
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 308
- Total persons testing negative: 295
- Total persons testing positive: 8
- Total persons testing pending: 4
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There were no COVID-19 tests conducted today. That statistic alone is again, reason for gratitude!!! We await results for 3 staff members and 1 resident from previous testing.

Why keep the dialog going?

We have been asked on more than one occasion why the transparency? Why keep the dialog going?

It is not all that complex. Our first and primary focus is, was, and continues to be our residents, families, and caregivers. It is not such an outlandish gesture to be forthright with those we lovingly serve.It is simply our responsibility. How can they possibly feel safe and trust in the care of their loved ones if we are not? It is our sacred obligation to keep them appraised and they are grateful for our best efforts.

We have thankfully stabilized all service lines and are continuing to simply take one day at a time. Over and over we repeat the cautionary guidance regarding the spread of this virus in “the heartland” (us) which has not yet reached its peak. It is an intricate balance between an increase in reported cases and the coinciding increase in testing. So, what does that mean to you? At its simplest, it means you are walking next to people who have yet to be tested and some of them are likely carriers, as increased testing would suggest. At its worst, more people are contracting the virus due to increased opportunities for transmission. Either way, social distancing, wash your hands, wear a mask in public places, and try and limit contact with others as much as possible.

We keep the dialog going because now is not the time to go radio silent…we must keep the dialog going if there is something to say and needs to be heard.

What are the greatest challenges for you now?

Honestly, trying to invent creative ways for residents to connect with families while keeping everyone safe. It is the greatest physical and emotional challenge we currently face. As human beings, we were created to connect, to touch, to show affection. It is as essential as the air we breathe. We are reaching out and exploring every potential means of enabling a connection. Safety is and will continue to be our greatest priority while remaining compliant with state, regulatory, and federal guidelines. We are a loving group of people who share in this pain…we want more than anything to help you “breathe” again.

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (4/29/20-5/13/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 187
- Staff members testing negative: 179
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 4
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 121
- Residents testing negative: 116
- Residents testing positive: 4
- Resident testing pending: 1
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 308
- Total persons testing negative: 295
- Total persons testing positive: 8
- Total persons testing pending: 5
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

COVID Cases

There was 1 new employee test conducted today. That statistic alone is again, reason for gratitude!!! We await results for 4 staff members and 1 resident from previous testing.

Where do we go from here?

If you follow the news at all, you may just turn it off. The news and outlook for the future as it relates to the world’s healthcare crisis is not overly, or even mildly, optimistic. By most accounts, organizations like Hubbard Hill best not take our eye off the prize.

But for today, we are in reasonably good shape. Are we out of the woods? It is hard to imagine when that may be. We have not had to test anyone we suspect of COVID for a couple of days—which is good! We feel all the proactive-not reactive steps we have taken over the past months are hopefully paying off. Of course, we reiterate the fact if there are variables we do not control, it is like shutting the front door and leaving the back door open.

The federal and state governments have at long last shown a spotlight on the nursing home community, calling for increased transparency with caregivers and families and strong guidance to test the over 1 million nursing home residents as well as staff within the next two weeks. If that can be accomplished, (assuming tests are readily available) it will go a long way towards beginning to flatten the nursing home curve of the virus. It remains to be seen if Hubbard Hill needs to repeat our campus-wide testing which was completed on May 4^th and included all 373 residents and staff. When the unacceptable level of positive tests by government standards is 10%, we are pleased (never satisfied) with 2.5% over the past 14 days.

So, what are our priorities now? What are our next steps?

First and foremost we continue to prevent the spread and contain the virus on our campus. Staff members who test positive are sent home for the prescribed two-week quarantine window, retested, and return with a negative result. Residents are in quarantine when tested positive, receive care and treatment, retest when symptoms subside, and exit quarantine when all the other quarantined residents also test negative. We are working day and night caring for these precious residents to get them stabilized and back on their feet. Today, we are cautiously optimistic!

We would be less than vigilant if we did not begin our preparations for what may be an equally challenging fall. If it does not pan out-so be it. We never want to be in a position again, as we all were, when COVID-19 darkened our doorsteps. So, we are preparing.

I want to take this opportunity to thank each one of the countless individuals who have reached out asking how to help. At this point, it goes without saying, continued prayer. Your generous and thoughtful gifts of food and baked goods for our tremendously overworked staff are beyond words! Kind and inspirational notes of hope and appreciation never get old! Someone called them our “warriors” and that is a great picture. They ALL are!! However, relative to financial support, we have been blessed by receipt of COVID-19 support funding and are in reasonably good shape today.

However, as we prepare for the fall and our anticipated needs, please stay close as we have no idea what the future holds, either from the virus and its impact or what kind of financial relief may or may not be available at that time.

But for today, thank you. Thank you for your generous offers but in good faith are not needed for COVID-19 initiatives today.

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data (4/28/20-5/12/20)

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 186
- Staff members testing negative: 179
- Staff members testing positive: 4
- Staff testing pending: 3
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 121
- Residents testing negative: 116
- Residents testing positive: 4
- Resident testing pending: 1
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cumulative cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 307
- Total persons testing negative: 295
- Total persons testing positive: 8
- Total persons testing pending: 4
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

National Nurses Week

Merriam Webster Dictionary defines nurse (noun or verb): A person who cares for the sick and infirmed; one who looks after, fosters, advises; one who treats with special care or attention; to attempt to cure by care and treatment; to take charge of and watch over.

Based on these various definitions, we are all called in some form or fashion to be a nurse and/or nurse during this extraordinary crisis. Are we not all called to care for, look after, treat with special care and attention, take charge of and watch over our neighbors, loved ones, and those who have been tagged as “less than” in our society?

To attempt to cure by care and treatment is probably an overreach for most of us. But the choice of the word “attempt” to cure is an interesting choice of words…perhaps, maybe because we believe only the Ultimate nurse is truly capable of healing. He “nurses” us daily, moment by moment-mentally, physically, and spiritually. God alone is the true healer-and our beloved nurses are His tools. So too are we called to “nurse” during this crisis with Him by our side. So, pull out your nurse’s kit, not just this week but every day.

COVID Cases

There were no tests conducted today with any staff or residents. That statistic alone is a reason for gratitude!!! One negative staff result arrived today from a previously conducted test. We await results on 3 staff members and 1 resident from the previous testing.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Sunday, May 10, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 62
- Staff members testing negative: 55
- Staff members testing positive: 7
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 128
- Residents testing negative: 123
- Residents testing positive: 5
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total new persons tested: 190
- Total new persons testing negative: 178
- Total New persons testing positive: 12
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

National Nurses Week

It is hard to imagine a group of women who sacrifice as much as nurses who are also mothers. But we are biased 😉 All moms or grandmothers who work untenable and unpredictably long hours are celebrated today. Nurses who set such a shining example for their children of what it means to sacrifice, selflessly face untold sadness and loss in their careers, commit and recommit daily, and demonstrate such endless compassion in the face of crisis are helping to shape our future generations. For that and for all of the mothers who are working today away from their children, we celebrate you, and know you are loved and so very precious to all of those you serve and work alongside daily.

COVID Cases

Today we are pleased to return 2 negative staff test results. What a wonderful Mother’s Day gift for them and we humbly praise the Lord our God.

In Honor of All Mothers

What a bittersweet Mother’s Day for so many. For those whose mothers have passed away, those whose mothers are inaccessible due to the COVID-19 virus, or those who are far away. At a time when the one person we need to provide us the comfort only a mother can provide, so many are not present. And the one person we want to comfort and tell them ‘it will be ok” and hold them close, again, we cannot. How do we cope without the one who helped teach us how to cope, how to endure, be brave, and have faith? How do we help her and return the many times she lifted us up?

How? We turn to the One who taught her how to cope, how to endure, be brave and faith in Him. We place our sadness and fears safely in His loving hands and know He is present alongside our moms wherever they may be. We long for a return to normal. But maybe, just maybe, our old normal is not how God wants to restore us? Maybe by reaching back for normal, we will lose out on what He has planned which is new? I pray that thought brings you peace.

And for those who are blessed to spend this wonderful day of honor with your beloved moms, give her the best gift you can, her health and safety. Tell her from 6 feet away how much you love and appreciate being with her. For today, not a hug, but your heart and your voice. Peace be with you and with our mothers…wherever they may be. And finally, …

Happy Mother’s Day!

Isaiah 66:13: “As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you.”

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Friday, May 8, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 60
- Staff members testing negative: 53
- Staff members testing positive:7
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 128
- Residents testing negative: 123
- Residents testing positive: 5
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total new persons tested: 188
- Total new persons testing negative: 176
- Total New persons testing positive: 12
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

National Nurses Week

We do not think often, but more often than we probably would like, people forget the real value nurses bring to our lives, the community, and of course Hubbard Hill. We forget they have families, lives of their own, children, spouses, significant others, pets, homes, bills, and anything you may think of in your own lives. Sadly, they also experience parenting concerns, sickness, arguments, deaths, and other life experiences outside of nursing. Yet we expect them to suit up, show up whenever called upon, and oh, by the way, bring every ounce of professionalism and a smiling face in spite of what they just left behind in their “real” life!

So, during National Nurses Week, why not try and turn the tables on a nurse who asks 100’s of times a day “how are you?” and ask them “no, how are YOU today?” You might just be surprised-they will be!! 😉

COVID Cases

Today we are pleased to return a negative position reporting 1 negative resident and 6 negative staff member test results. You may wonder where the need for testing arises and we retest (as we have tested the entire campus once) anyone who presents COVID-19 symptoms and/or anyone who may be contact-traced to someone receiving a positive test.

On this chilly Friday evening, we are going to err on the side of ‘” less is more” and invite everyone to take a breath and wind down. We know COVID-19 is alive and well, and we want to invite you to do the same…be alive and well!

1 Thessalonians 1:3

…We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Thursday, May 7, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 53
- Staff members testing negative: 47
- Staff members testing positive:7
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 127
- Residents testing negative: 122
- Residents testing positive: 5
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total new persons tested: 180
- Total new persons testing negative: 169
- Total New persons testing positive: 12
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

National Nurses Week

In the world of bedside manner, we typically think of physicians. We take exception to that notion. The breadth and depth of a nurse’s bedside manner transcends passing meds, checking vitals, or other traditional nursing roles. Our nurse’s bedside manner unquestionably transcends the bedside. A nurse leaving her shift but hears the cry of fear in the dark, drops her things and stays until the resident is comforted. A nurse comforting a family who struggles to see their loved one transitioning on their journey and reminds them gently they are still there. A nurse who faces a family who is distraught by a misunderstood situation and carefully and thoughtfully listens and guides them to a better place.

The keyword is “manner(s)”. Bedside just happens to be geography. Are our nurses saints? I would like to think so 😊, but they are human, and I will stack them up against anyone when it comes to their “manners”. Integrity is defined as doing the right thing when no one is looking-in that I take great comfort-knowing that occurs constantly at Hubbard -night and day.

“They may forget your name but they will never forget how you made them feel.” 😉.

COVID Cases

With little to no testing occurring at this time, we do we report however, one positive case which was also a dishwasher and is related to the initial case involving a dishwasher. This staff member removed himself from work as soon as his relative was diagnosed and is now positive. One resident returned a negative result.

National Day of Prayer

Has there ever been a better time in the recent past than now for the National Day of Prayer? COVID-19 did not stop us from celebrating with the rest of the entire nation in prayer. The feeling of connectivity through Christ “from sea to shining sea” as our own Tim Henke shared. Is there anything more galvanizing than an immense group, stopping, and all pointing in the same direction-to Him at the same time?

It lifted our hearts, replenished our spirits, and restored our hope. It was also a time of gratitude. To give thanks for all we do have and the many ways we have been blessed. In times like these, we can so easily focus on what we have lost. So, we give thanks for the National Day of Prayer and will carry on not one, but day after day after another day of prayer. *see the live broadcast on our Facebook page.

The Voices We Hear

I am so often reminded when we find ourselves searching for the “good stories”, the “happy times” to share that not everybody is happy, and not every story is a good one. We truly empathize and mean it. We tell you we understand and feel your pain. And we try our very hardest. But in many cases, people are experiencing gut-wrenching fear, hurt, and pain at the prospect of not holding or touching their loved one again. How can we possibly know the depths of these feelings? We cannot. But empathy comes in many forms. We do have families of our own-still living-and some who have died.

We have all said in some form or fashion, how incredibly devastating it must be to carry those thoughts and fears inside you day after day as this virus continues its path of destruction. Loss does come in many forms and time is one of the biggest losses. We know many are trying to anticipate and play the odds of taking your loved one home to experience what time only God knows remains. We fully understand the impetus for entertaining those thoughts. We do not judge you and have no idea how we would respond in a like situation. Know that we are here for you, pray for you, and fully support you in any way possible. We truly hear your voice. And to this, we say, Amen.

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

Past 14 Days Data

Staff cases as of this posting:
- Staff members tests: 52
- Staff members testing negative: 47
- Staff members testing positive: 6
- Staff member deaths: 0
Resident cases as of this posting:
- Residents tested: 126
- Residents testing negative: 121
- Residents testing positive: 5
  - Resident deaths: 1
Total cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total new persons tested: 178
- Total new persons testing negative: 168
- Total new persons testing positive: 11
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths: 1

National Nurses Week

Today, we talk about the resilience of our nurses. Not many of us could walk through these doors every day with the spirit of collaboration, can-do attitude, nothing impossible mentality, and get’r done approach to their work the way these professionals do-day in and day out. To work tirelessly to maintain the level of excellence that has sustained Hubbard Hill for 42 years is remarkable. To get kicked in the teeth with a resident succumbing to illness and knowing they are with God the Father is the fuel that keeps them moving. For their commitment and calling-we say again, thank you!!

“Nurses are a unique kind. They have this insatiable need to care for others, which is both their biggest strength and fatal flaw.” …and we do not necessarily look at it as a fatal flaw 😉.

COVID Cases

So today, we celebrate the fact that each new day brings healing and hope. Even after the disappointment of yesterday. We had 5 staff members reported-all negative! Praise the Lord! We take our wins large and small with tremendous gratitude.

Testing Report

As of today, the figures reported above represent data from the last 14 days. This new format is a directive from the Indiana Department of Health and is required for all facilities. We have been compliant for some time, so this is just a new way of presenting the information. Again, you will find our baseline testing for the entire campus at the end of this report. Do not try and compare this report to a past report as it would be apples to oranges. This is the same data, just presented in a different format.

From our Chaplain: Dave Severance

I have been speaking with several residents over the past weeks, checking in on them just to see how they are doing. Most residents are doing just fine. Do they like the directives which are in play? Well, of course not. But they understand them and are grateful for our vigilance and protecting their health and safety. They are incredibly supportive of our efforts. Some are very eager to talk, and I have had some particularly good conversations-this is a very vulnerable time for them and our world.

For me personally, I believe I have been more inspired by them and their responses than I have inspired them! The “wisdom” of the Living Wisdom Community is utilizing their maturity to find contentment in themselves. What a novel idea!

I speak about grief in this COVID-19 crisis, not as in the loss of a loved one, but every bit of loss people have endured thus far. Acknowledging and embracing your inner grief is so important during this time. The loss of normalcy for our residents presents grief onto itself. Allow yourself to live your grief.

I offer to you as I have our residents this counsel: you cannot run from loss-you must draw strength from it. And we know who fuels the strength. May God be with you and your families during this crisis.

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results:

Final Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Hubbard Hill COVID-19 Cases as of this posting:

New staff members tests: 35
- New staff members testing negative: 33
- New staff members testing positive: 2
- New staff member deaths: 0
New resident cases as of this posting:
- New residents tested: 22
- New residents testing negative: 17
- New residents testing positive: 5
- New resident deaths: 0
Total new cases at Hubbard Hill as of this posting:
- Total new persons tested: 57
- Total new persons testing negative: 50
- Total New persons testing positive: 7
- Total Hubbard Hill deaths:

National Nurses Week

How important is it to single out the backbone of healthcare at this time? How important is it to lead this report with a message of honor? To find all the words which completely capture the impact, the commitment, the spirit, the courage, the wisdom, the love, the faith, the sacrifice, the tenacity, the compassion, the heroism of our nurses. Beginning tomorrow and for the next week, Hubbard Hill, along with every other healthcare organization in the country, is going to take a time out from this daunting challenge we face to honor our own. Because it is simply the right thing to do, not because of the situation, but in spite of the situation.

Hubbard Hill is fortunate to have supported WNDU and its National Nurses Week initiative: Nurses Are Heroes. We honor not just our own, but ALL nurses in our community, in our nation, and around the world. We are so proud of not only the hero nurses who were selected out of hundreds to be featured in the WNDU commercial but ALL Hubbard Hill hero nursing staff. The spots will be airing on WNDU beginning today.

Joyel Shaw (left), Sarah Myers (center), and the Living Wisdom Center Quarantine team (right)

“A hero is somebody who voluntarily walks into the unknown.” …and so it is with this crisis.

New COVID Cases

So today was a very disappointing day for Hubbard Hill as we received a portion of the retesting data for LWC and 5 more positive cases. This is such spirit breaking news that we ask for your continued prayers as we come to grips with the news of the spread in Living Wisdom Center. 1 staff member and 4 more residents in the household with the resident reported earlier this week, have tested positive. This is the insidious nature of this virus transmission.

The household is now under full quarantine in addition to the initial quarantined household. If there is a light in this whole scenario it is the residents from the initial quarantined unit are now stable and continuing to make progress. This shows us if we catch it early enough there is an opportunity to treat and manage the virus during the quarantine period.

In the world of trying to make excuses, there are none. This virus is what it is. But there is learning, and that is the demonstrable value of testing. Because we were able to retest immediately following the first resident, we were able to discover quickly. From a process standpoint, we tested the resident presenting symptoms immediately, received the positive result, and immediately retested the entire LWC staff and residents. This made all the difference in our ability to further mitigate the spread and more effectively care for these residents.

Obviously, our skilled team of nurses are saddened beyond words…giving 150% and losing these battles is a punch in the face. BUT they are restored, rejuvenated, and if possible, recommitted to ensuring as best they can to bring this to an end. Can we make that promise? No. No one can. As long as the variables beyond our control are present, we are exposed.

Again, please continue to pray for our residents, their families and our heroic staff that our faith in God and his boundless love and mercy is unyielding in this pandemic.

Assisted Living Testing Update

As mentioned yesterday, these total campus baseline figures have moved to the end of the report and front-page reporting is now showing new tests, new positive results, new negative results, and new deaths in the last 14 days as we move through virus impact per the Indiana Department of Health guidelines

Sobering News today

News of 3 major projection models have now revealed the previous death estimates linked to the COVID-19 virus could nearly double by June 1^st– a direct result of the opening of communities and states and the associated non-compliance and loosening of guidelines. While we consistently monitor trends and projections to supplement our guidance, this simply reinforces the need for our continued vigilance until the trends flatten and in fact, begin declining. As earlier reported, senior healthcare facilities will be the last to relax our restrictions. We are simply not there yet as a community. Our news today further illuminates the fact that the COVID-19 virus is spreading rapidly in our community.

For today Though we can become easily overwhelmed by our current circumstances and fear, do not let yourself become numb as part of your new normal. God is calling us to live intentionally in HIS love. And we implore you to remain vigilant in your own lives to ensure your own safety as well as your fellow man.

Monday, May 4, 2020

Hubbard Hill Initial Campus-wide Screening Results

Completed 05.04.20

Staff status as of 5.4.20:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as 5.4.20:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 171
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of 5.4.20:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 357
- Total persons testing positive: 16
- Total persons deceased: 1

Assisted Living Testing Update

We have received the final batch of 55 resident tests and once again, all tested negative! Thank God for our good fortune and his loving hand. The final numbers are complete for Hubbard Hill campus screening. 96% of our residents tested negative! For a facility our size-quite an accomplishment! As mentioned yesterday, these figures will be moved to the end of the report and front-page reporting will now show new tests, new cases, and new deaths over the prior 14 days as we move through virus impact per the Indiana Department of Health guidelines.

New COVID Case

There is a new staff member who has tested COVID positive after being negative since the initial testing in the Living Wisdom Center. This staff member began suffering with pre-existing asthma and sought out their physician. As the signs and symptoms were similar to COVID-19, the staff member was tested and tested COVID positive. The staff member will now be on mandatory 14-day quarantine from home.

Once again, while it is extremely frustrating to us all, we are trying vigorously to define a process of identifying the point of contact resulting in the positive test. Contact tracing is our foremost priority. Since we began this journey, we knew our task was clear: 1) Determine if, where, and how many the virus had touched; 2) Contain the virus; 3) Diminish the opportunities or contact points for the virus to spread as best we can. These have not and will not change in the foreseeable future.

All staff have been required to wear some form of face mask since the early days of the lockdown relative to their role at Hubbard Hill. At this point, we now require all staff in all departments to utilize N95 masks which offer higher-level protection to non-nursing staff to mitigate the opportunity for COVID 19 spread.

Many of you, I am sure, have heard the news about Governor Holcomb’s plan to reopen Indiana It is important to note this plan is subject to change based upon CDC guidance and other new information that may emerge.

This plan is important to understand as Hubbard Hill is subject to all governmental (federal, state, and local) and regulatory (CDC, Indiana Department of Health) guidelines in all we do. All nursing home facilities are surveyed frequently to ensure compliance. We report daily to these entities and the ISDH is on-site routinely since our initial report of a positive test result at Hubbard.

What is Hubbard Hill’s position on this plan?
- The Governor’s safeguards appear to be sufficient, but only if there is compliance.
What does it mean to Hubbard Hill, residents, families, and caregivers?
- Unquestionably, the largest impact is that nursing homes will remain closed to visitors throughout the phased plan with guidance to continue and will evaluate at Stage 5 beginning July 4^th. It is as simple as the rationale stated above. We are protecting our most vulnerable and must remain compliant while these directives are in place.
Since all 98 Assisted Living residents tested negative, will services such as communal dining be restored? How about getting their hair done?
- Unfortunately, although our facility is 96% negative today, we are still subject to the state and regulatory directives and guidelines for nursing homes. Consequently, since they established the non-communal dining directive we must continue to comply with that directive as well as other suspensions of service directives (such as the beauty shop) until further notice.
Can Assisted Living residents go outside for a walk?
- Yes, we encourage the therapeutic value of being out in the beautiful weather, sunshine, enjoying the beauty of the campus. However, the same social distancing guidelines which are in play inside the facility apply outdoors as well. Again, even though residents may be outdoors with social distancing precautions-families and caregivers may NOT come to the Hubbard Hill campus to visit, and doing so would necessitate quarantine for residents involved.
My loved one tested negative, I do not have COVID-why can’t I see him/her even outside away from others?
- With all due respect, unless you have been tested, you have no way of knowing you are not a carrier of the COVID virus. Asymptomatic persons (someone not presenting or exhibiting symptoms) are part of the greatest risk to mitigating this virus-they are the “silent” carriers. Because we are 96% negative-we are going to protect that and hopefully improve it moving forward.

Sunday, May 3, 2020

Hubbard Hill Totals as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting:
- Total staff members tested: 193
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 180
- Total residents testing negative: 116
- Total residents testing positive: 9
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 373
- Total persons testing negative: 302
- Total persons testing positive: 16

Assisted Living Testing Update

We have received a partial batch of results for Assisted Living and all 43 resident tests were negative. Again, great news! We await the remaining 55 results to complete our baseline testing of the entire campus. When those 55 results are added into the campus figures above, this will constitute our baseline measurement of where we began this journey. Subsequent reporting will show new tests, new cases, and new deaths as we move through virus impact per the Indiana Department of Health guidelines.

New COVID Case

We have an additional new case in the Living Wisdom Center. This resident has been placed in isolation with a one on one caregiver for the duration of mandatory 14-day quarantine. This resident was outside the parameters of the quarantined area. The figures above include this newest case. Once again, we emphasize the fluid nature of this virus as testing is a point in time. As stated in earlier posts, we have already initiated retesting of all staff and residents to ensure there has been no further virus transmission.

We clearly have no way of exactly identifying the point of contact resulting in the positive test. We do our best to remind our staff as they leave to be vigilant every where they go, even at home-but we are all human. All staff have been required to wear some form of face mask since the early days of the lock down relative to their role at Hubbard Hill. At this point, we now require all staff in all departments to utilize N95 masks which offer a higher-level protection to non-nursing staff to mitigate the opportunity for COVID 19 spread.

Since we began his journey, we knew our task was clear: 1) Determine if, where, and how many the virus had touched; 2) Contain the virus; 3) Diminish the opportunities or contact points for the virus to spread as best we can. These have not and will not change in the foreseeable future.

Governor Holcomb: Back on Track Roadmap to Safely Reopen Indiana

Many of you, I am sure, have heard the news about Governor Holcomb’s plan to reopen Indiana. We are in receipt of the plan documents and have reviewed them thoroughly. It is a staged plan which begins from today Stage 1 and continues through Stage 5 commencing July 4^th and continues beyond. It is important to note this plan is subject to change based upon CDC guidance and other new information that may emerge.

What is Hubbard Hill’s position on this plan?

While we certainly understand the untenable task of balancing the economic and healthcare impacts of this virus, we continue to believe there is insufficient testing occurring to identify carriers to truly mitigate the spread. It is also clear that the incidence of the virus has not leveled out (also known as flattening the curve) in our area, and while anecdotally it appears people are becoming more compliant-still not enough to safeguard our residents-an estimated 96% who have tested negative. For these reasons alone, we continue to exercise caution. More importantly, opening Indiana also opens the opportunity for more virus spread. The Governor’s safeguards appear to be sufficient, but only if there is compliance.

What does it mean to Hubbard Hill, residents, families, and caregivers?

Unquestionably, the largest impact is that nursing homes will remain closed to visitors throughout the phased plan with guidance to continue and evaluate at Stage 5 beginning July 4^th. This is perhaps the most significant and disappointing to all residents, families, and caregivers. It is as simple as the rationale stated above. We are protecting our most vulnerable. And as of this posting, we have a 96% healthy population we do not wish to put at risk.

Having said that, we are exploring more creative ways to provide opportunities for families to access residents without direct contact. We know how important this is and are trying to ensure access to nature continues as we know how therapeutically invaluable it is to our residents (the reason we built the atrium at LWC) All of these efforts again, must comply with CDC, ISDH, and the Governor’s directives.

So, who are we going to be?

Allow me to muse a little about the future. What I can say with certainty, we are on a journey and we do not know when we will reach the end. It has been miraculous that we have so few cases to date for a facility our size. This is due, in no small part, to our ability to secure testing kits as expeditiously as we were able. Now we have a baseline to measure the transmission of the virus in real-time.

However, the truth of the matter is there is no “perfect” or irrefutable way to mitigate the transmission of this virus. We cannot stop it, but what we do does make a difference. We make our absolute best efforts but at the same time cannot possibly control all the variables which contribute to virus transmission. This is not unique to Hubbard Hill but all employers around the country.

We are moving forward is the same caring, compassionate, and fully dedicated team, transparent and relentless in their pursuit of excellence. Our job is to fully understand the risk that is presented on any given day and manage it with every resource we can bring to bear. We will continue to be real and plan for the next positive case to surface. We owe you nothing less than that. We will bring our BEST efforts every day for as long as this journey continues. Most importantly, we will not stray or waiver from our company’s mission and values during a crisis -which is, of course, why you came to us in the beginning.

We are reminded by Paul in his letter to the Romans, that whatever we are facing in our exact circumstances “…. Nothing can separate us from the LOVE of God…..” and in fact, ….in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Friday, May 1, 2020

Hubbard Hill Totals as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting
- Total staff members tested: 192
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 7
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 81
- Total residents testing negative: 73
- Total residents testing positive: 8
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 274
- Total persons testing negative: 259l
- Total persons testing positive: 15

Assisted Living Testing Update

As we have mentioned on numerous occasions throughout this journey, receiving test results can be frustrating as they often come in dribbles instead of all at once. The same continues to hold true even now. The best explanation we can provide is when a large facility or hospital sends in tests for assessment and we follow with ours we are put in the que. There is no way to accurately predict when they will get to us except by the lab’s best guess. Sometimes they are right on and sometimes are not. Most importantly, please know that this in no way is an indicator of results, positive or negative, just pure volume.

New Covid Case

We have a new staff COVID-19 positive case at Hubbard Hill as of yesterday. It is among our dietary staff in the main building, specifically, a dishwasher who did NOT handle food. This staff member was tested in the initial full staff cohort on 4/26 and was negative. Since then, this staff member recently began to exhibit symptoms, self-quarantined at home, consulted their primary care physician, tested again, and was positive. So, this person was negative 5 days ago, a snapshot. And this dynamic is happening in the general population every day.

This case is important as it is a textbook example why we say testing is a snapshot in time. We view every day as a teachingmoment, and this is a reminder to us all about personal precautions. All facilities, hospitals, and every employeranywhere deal with the obvious risk of employees leaving and coming. This is no different. Contact tracing here at Hubbard Hill indicates this employee had extremely limited exposure to staff and residents and were geographically contained to a very small area for a short period of time.

Obviously, we have no way of knowing exactly where this was contracted, but since everyone tested negative, conventional wisdom suggests outside of Hubbard Hill. We do our best to remind our staff as they leave to be vigilant every where they go, even at home-but we are all human.

All staff have been required to wear some form of face masksince the early days of the lock down relative to their role at Hubbard Hill. At this point, we now require all staff in all departments to utilize N95 masks which offer a higher-level protection to non-nursing staff to mitigate the opportunity for COVID 19 spread.

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Hubbard Hill Totals as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting:
- Total staff members tested: 192
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 6
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 81
- Total residents testing negative: 73
- Total residents testing positive: 8
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 273
- Total persons testing negative: 259
- Total persons testing positive: 14

We completed 98 resident tests on Wednesday and anticipate receiving results starting tomorrow. Pray God’s grace continue to shine upon our remarkable and patient residents. Their ongoing trust and patience are what continues to make this work!! Thank You!!!

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Well, it is time for some good news today! We have completed 100% of Assisted Living testing TODAY!!! Praise the Lord! We are blessed in so many ways, from our ability to contain COVID-19 in the Living Wisdom Center in 7 days to Skilled Healthcare 100% negative and now await Assisted Living test results. We continue to carry our sorrow and love for the family who still grieves for the loss of their loved one. One is one too many…

Hubbard Hill Totals as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting:
- Total staff members tested: 192
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 6
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 81
- Total residents testing negative: 73
- Total residents testing positive: 8
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 273
- Total persons testing negative: 259
- Total persons testing positive: 14

Additionally, we have received so many generous and kind donations in support of our COVID efforts. We cannot thank everyone enough who have so lovingly given of themselves, be it a caring note, financial support, or a doughnut or pretzel drop for our hard-working staff, or most importantly, your continued prayers for our residents and staff. We know they are continually answered in God’s time-not ours-and want you to know we see and feel His presence and guidance coming from Him every day. We CAN NOT do this without YOU!

As we continue to learn every day, we share things we feel important for you to know so you might have a little view of our perspective. Today we learned that Germany had opened their country and after only 9 days saw a spike in COVID cases. We view this as directional, but certainly something to be mindful of. Of course, every country is different based upon how they have managed the virus.

Are Assisted Living residents allowed to go outside when it is nice and take a walk if they maintain social distancing? Yes, we encourage residents to strictly adhere to social distancing, but the current science supports being outdoors. We have many lovely enclosed courtyards and an angel garden. We want to be clear that it is still not permissible for visitors to join loved ones at Hubbard Hill even in these settings. Remember, we have maintained strict quarantine measures at Hubbard Hill and any exposure to outside visitors would be considered a breach right now.

Do you have any idea or guesstimate when you might lift the resident lockdown?

It so hard to tell as the target seems to move weekly. We will follow CDC and ISDH guidelines and communicate those guidelines in real-time. As we stated yesterday, we want families to know that Healthcare facilities are NOT included in the early stages of any proposed “reopening” and most likely will be the last places to relax restrictions as we have the most vulnerable populations. We feel our residents’ and families’ pain and desire to be reunited with loved ones! This lockdown seems to go against the values and culture of Hubbard Hill to espouse human connection and celebrate the gift of relationship with each other and our God- yet we all understand the necessity of this sacrifice – if only for a while.

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

The totals are unchanged from yesterday as testing has been completed to date. Times have been scheduled for Assisted Living resident testing this week to bring all initial testing to completion.

Hubbard Hill Totals as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting:
- Total staff members tested: 192
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 6
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 81
- Total residents testing negative: 73
- Total residents testing positive: 8
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 273
- Total persons testing negative: 259
- Total persons testing positive: 14

We are saddened today to announce the first death in the Living Wisdom Center quarantine area. The resident passed away yesterday, but out of respect for the family’s privacy and the need for time to grieve and contact their extended families, we delayed the announcement until today. It is equally difficult for our staff as they are grieving right alongside the family. To fight this war with everything in our power and lose even one battle is heartbreaking for everyone. We are keeping the family in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers.

How are the residents in quarantine doing?

The residents are doing reasonably well as they enter the final phase of the 14-day quarantine-which can be the most precarious for seniors. Preexisting conditions coupled with dementia and COVID can produce a challenging and rapidly changing set of symptoms. We have a gifted skilled nursing team in the quarantined household, and they are tenderly and heroically caring for the physical and cognitive needs our residents.

What will Hubbard be doing moving forward following the completion of the campus testing?

We will continue rigorously administering universal precautions as well as all CDC, ISDH and local directives. Additionally, we will continue routinely testing staff until further notice. Of course, if any resident presents COVID symptoms even after initial testing, they will be tested again. As stated in previous posts, we are just entering the eye of the storm in this community. Just like a hurricane warning, some people ignore evacuation warnings, and likewise some people in this crisis are ignoring CDC directives and precautions. We will continue to be extremely vigilant in our efforts to safeguard our residents, many of whom are more susceptible to this virus. So even as some parts of society relax restrictions, we will be slower and very intentional in how we proceed. We know this is painful to all parties and we appreciate this difficult sacrifice.

The Governor of Indiana issued new guidelines for long-term care and memory care units. Is Hubbard Hill currently in compliance?

Yes, we are in receipt of those new guidelines from our Governor and we have complied with all pertinent National and State guidelines since early in the COVID-19 crisis. As always, we are monitoring daily all national, state and local events and resources which may impact Hubbard Hill. Knowledge is power and we utilize all this information to guide our COVID-19 strategy development. What we know to be true, we are not out of the woods yet. We urge all Hubbard families and residents to continue to do their part to flatten the curve and reduce the incidence of this dangerous virus in and around our community.

May the Lord fill you with His peace beyond understanding so that you may share that Peace with all around you in the midst of this storm.

Monday, April 27, 2020

The totals are unchanged from yesterday as testing has been completed to date. Times have been scheduled for Assisted Living resident testing this week to bring all initial testing to completion.

Hubbard Hill Totals as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting:
- Total staff members tested: 192
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 6
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 81
- Total residents testing negative: 73
- Total residents testing positive: 8
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 273
- Total persons testing negative: 259
- Total persons testing positive: 14

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT!

Announcement: Medical Director for Hubbard Hill Living Wisdom Community, Dr. Susan Moore, has issued the required physician’s order for mandatory COVID-19 testing all Assisted Living residents to be administered the week of 4/27/20.

Dr. Moore will oversee Assisted Living testing representing the largest resident population at Hubbard Hill. This is the final group to be tested as we maintain our vigilance protecting all staff and residents from COVID-19 spread. All Hubbard Hill staff members have already been tested. We are intentional in our purpose and will be regularly and routinely testing our staff throughout this journey.

The testing protocol began today with family members and residents informed about the testing to be administered on Wednesday and Thursday. The primary family contact as listed in the resident medical record on file will be notified of the result in real time as they arrive back from the laboratory. One call per family will be made to the primary contact.

Testing detail:

Times have been scheduled for residents throughout the day Wednesday and Thursday.
Wellness and Customer Experience staff members will come to each resident’s door at the appointed time and escort them to the testing site.
Social distancing will be maintained throughout this process with PPE’s being utilized.
Three nurses will perform the tests five hours a day each day. The entire process should not take any longer than 15 minutes.

We know there may be questions regarding testing. Some may be asking why we are testing everyone? First and foremost, the leadership of Hubbard Hill is accountable to all residents and families for upholding the health and safety of all residents and staff. This is a national crisis which has already touched Hubbard Hill. If we had not tested every person in the Living Wisdom Center, our ability to contain the virus would have been severely compromised, if not impossible.

The fact of the matter is there continues to be so many unknowns about the COVID-19 virus. But there are things we do know. Most importantly, is the frequency of virus transmission from an asymptomatic individual (no symptoms presented or produced) to an unknowing person with whom they have been in contact. The numbers are increasing rapidly each day in this area. The only way to safeguard our entire staff and resident population from this silent attack is testing everyone. You may feel perfectly fine with no symptoms whatsoever…AND be a carrier.

Are we lifting lockdown based upon these results? Not at this point. A COVID-19 test is a snapshot in time, so we know exactly where we are. Just when the experts appear to have it understood- they do not. The sobering reality of the changing and unpredictable nature of this virus hits us daily and we are learning every single day. There are no two days the same with this virus.

We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all families and residents in our care during this crisis and the trust you have placed in us. We are committed to transparency as we proceed foreword together and count on you to follow our guidelines for the overall welfare of all who reside and work at Hubbard Hill. We will endure together and emerge a stronger, more unified, more vigilant, more loving, and more faithful community.

We are blessed to have a caring and supportive Board of Directors and a steady, faithful, hand as Chairman. His spiritual guidance is clear:

May the Lord strengthen you by his grace for each new day and what it brings. Let me encourage you to be sure to spend a little time each day, in the midst of these troubles, to be alone with God to hear from His Word and to talk with Him entrusting your cares to Him because he certainly does care for you, your team, and every resident there at HH.

Joe Wenger, Board Chairman, Hubbard Hill Living Wisdom Community

To this we say, Amen and Amen!!

Wash your Hands – Social Distance – Stop the Spread – Save Lives

Sunday, April 26, 2020

Starting today, our reporting will capture the aggregate totals of staff and resident testing results of the entire Hubbard Hill campus. The figures below include Living Wisdom Center and Skilled Healthcare which are complete. The final test cohort, Assisted Living begins this week These results will again be reported in real-time as have all other service lines.

Hubbard Hill Totals as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting:
- Total staff members tested: 192
- Total staff members testing negative: 186
- Staff members testing positive: 6
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 81
- Total residents testing negative: 73
- Total residents testing positive: 8
Total Hubbard Hill Campus as of this posting:
- Total persons tested: 273
- Total persons testing negative: 259
- Total persons testing positive: 14

Dr. Moore will oversee Assisted Living testing representing the largest resident population at Hubbard Hill. This is the final group to be tested as we maintain our vigilance protecting all staff and residents from COVID-19 spread. The magnitude of this effort requires total coordination between Dr. Moore, staff, and residents. More details will be forthcoming to all residents.

The testing protocol begins Monday-Tuesday as family members and residents will be informed with testing administered on Wednesday and Thursday. The primary family contact as listed in the resident medical record on file will be notified of the result in real time as they arrive back from the laboratory. One call per family will be made to the primary contact. AS SOON AS TEST RESULTS ARE AVAILABLE, WE WILL CALL YOU IN REAL TIME. PLEASE DO NOT CALL HUBBARD HILL STAFF.

The fact of the matter is there continues to be so many unknowns about the COVID-19 virus. But there are things we do know. Most importantly, is the frequency of virus transmission from an asymptomatic individual (no symptoms presented or produced) to an unknowing person with whom they have been in contact. The numbers are increasing exponentially each day in this area, necessitating more and more testing. And subsequently, more and more contact tracing. The only way to safeguard our staff and resident population from this silent attack is testing everyone. You may feel perfectly fine with no symptoms whatsoever…AND be a carrier.

Does the test hurt? It is characterized as uncomfortable, perhaps irritating. It lasts for about 10 seconds. The results typically are now returned within 48-72 hours. The initial test is administered and paid for by Hubbard Hill, so there is no charge to residents.

So, what happens if your test is negative? The honest answer is nothing. This testing is intended to provide Hubbard Hill valuable information and a baseline regarding the status of the population so we may set strategic direction with better intelligence.

Are we lifting lockdown based upon these results? Not at this point. A COVID-19 test is a snapshot in time, so we know exactly where we are. Given the aggressive and unpredictable nature of the virus, we must continue our vigilance. Just when the experts appear to have it understood- they do not. The sobering reality of the changing nature of this virus hits us daily and we are learning every single day.

In the nursing home population nationwide, 1/3 of all facilities report a COVID-19 case. The numbers are believed to be understated as testing has been severely limited. In some instances, positive cases are not even reported, making the incidence even higher. We do not want to be counted in the ranks of those who “closed the front door” on this virus, and “left the back door open”. All Hubbard Hill staff members have already been tested. We are intentional in our purpose and will be regularly and routinely testing our staff throughout this journey.

We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all families and residents in our care during this crisis and the trust you have placed in us. We embrace the gravity of the situation and the implications of each decision we make. We are committed to transparency as we proceed foreword together and count on you to follow our guidelines for the overall welfare of all who reside and work at Hubbard Hill. We will endure together and emerge a stronger, more unified, more vigilant, more loving, and more faithful community.

We are blessed to have a caring and supportive Board of Directors and a steady, faithful, hand as Chairman. His spiritual guidance is clear:

May the Lord strengthen you by his grace for each new day and what it brings. Let me encourage you to be sure to spend a little time each day, in the midst of these troubles, to be alone with God to hear from His Word and to talk with Him entrusting your cares to Him because he certainly does care for you, your team, and every resident there at HH.
Joe Wenger, Board Chairman, Hubbard Hill Living Wisdom Community

To this we say, Amen and Amen!!

Wash your hands- Social distance-Stop the Spread-Save Lives

Friday, April 24, 2020

The good news continues as we have completed Skilled Nursing staff and resident testing. Staff and resident test results as of this posting:

Staff status as of this posting:
- Total staff members tested: 149
- Total staff members testing negative: 149
- Staff members testing positive: 0
Resident status as of this posting:
- Total residents tested: 52
- Total residents testing negative: 50
- Total residents testing positive: 0
- Resident results not yet received: 2

As of this posting, apart from 2 residents whose results did not return with this batch, 100% of Skilled Nursing staff and resident results have been negative. We anticipate the final two resident’s results tomorrow. We could not be more pleased with these results! It is a testament to the vigilance

and professionalism of our highly skilled team!

Importantly, stay with us this weekend as we roll out the testing protocol for Assisted Living staff and residents scheduled for next week!

A reminder of our upcoming testing protocol is as follows for Assisted Living residents:

Residents who are symptomatic (exhibiting specified signs or symptoms of the Coronavirus)
Residents with pre-existing conditions
Residents which are healthy and have no symptoms of the Coronavirus.

As we remind our families every day, you will be notified in real-time if your loved one experiences any change of condition or anything directly impacting your loved one. As results return, our protocol is for a leadership team member to notify families or caregivers of the result (positive or negative) in real-time. These test results are not necessarily being returned to us in the batches in which they were sent. They sometimes return in a drip, not a flood. We appreciate your patience and understand just how difficult this is for you.

Continued good health and God’s grace to you and your families!

Thursday, April 23, 2020

The good news continues as we have nearly completed Skilled Nursing staff testing. We have completed resident testing in Skilled Nursing:

Staff test results as of this posting:
- Today staff members testing negative: 0
- Total 149 staff members testing negative
- 0 staff members testing positive
Resident status as of this posting:
- Today: Residents tested: 52
  - Results received: 0

In our Skilled Healthcare area, we collected 52 tests yesterday and they were sent out last evening to the lab for assessment. As of this posting, no test results have been received.

A reminder our testing protocol is as follows for Assisted Living and Skilled Healthcare residents:

Residents who are symptomatic (exhibiting specified signs or symptoms of the Coronavirus)
Residents with pre-existing conditions
Residents which are healthy and have no symptoms of the Coronavirus.

As we remind our families every day, you will be notified in real time if your loved one experiences any change of condition or anything directly impacting your loved one. As results return, our protocol is for a leadership team member to notify families or caregivers of the result (positive or negative) in real time. These test results are not necessarily being returned to us in the batches in which they were sent. They sometimes return in a drip, not a flood. We appreciate your patience and understand just how difficult this is for you.

Until this point, we have not been able to respond to questions from family members and caregivers. Today, we will begin responding to MFAQ (Most Frequently Asked Questions). Our intent is not to provide a comprehensive look into the future because we cannot. We simply want to provide you with our best thinking as of this posting. As you are acutely aware, circumstances could (and probably will) change tomorrow, but at least you may gain a greater understanding of the thinking behind our direction.

Is the COVID-19 virus as bad as is reported in the news?
1. Yes, based upon our experience and understanding of the data we receive, we believe it is. We also believe our community is just entering the early stages of virus spread which is why we so urgently encourage our families to adhere to social distancing, using appropriate PPE in public, frequent handwashing and staying away from the Hubbard Hill campus.
What are the projections for the virus?
1. At this point, there is more uncertainty than certainty of projections. Like hurricane models, there are a variety of projected virus trajectories based upon various assumptions. There are two common themes among a range of experts representing a variety of relevant fields:

No one is willing to attempt to project past June without more data. Five leading virus modelers all feel we are in this until at least the end of June until further data becomes available. The pivotal assumption in this view is that compliance and adherence to social distancing and stay at home directives are sustained during this period.

5 critical descriptive facts are still unclear which would support a dependable projection to be made:
1. The rate at which people who become infected die
  1. The rate of transmission to other people
  1. How many people have already been infected-not diagnosed-infected
  1. How many people have an immunity to the disease
  1. How long that immunity will last

So, from our seat, not much may be concluded today without enough knowledge of the virus and data. Our approach must be firmly grounded in science and clinical data. There are many voices, expert opinions, and conflicting statements not linked to the foremost experts and leaders of sources we are legally bound to follow. We know this can be difficult to decipher as the landscape seems to change constantly. Be assured we are carefully following the direction and working in conjunction with the CDC, State Board of Health, National and local entities; not reacting to the latest pundit or news report.

We will try and answer as many questions as possible as more information becomes available. Our approach would be characterized as soundly risk averse when it comes to the safety and well-being of all who reside and work at Hubbard Hill.

We will respond to more questions in future posts.

Continued good health and God’s grace to our community.

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

The good news continues as we have nearly completed Assisted Living and Skilled Healthcare staff testing today. We have initiated resident testing in Skilled Healthcare:

Staff test results as of this posting:
- Today staff members testing negative: 7
- Total 149 staff members testing negative
- 0 staff members testing positive
Resident status as of this posting:
- Today: Residents tested: 52
  - Results received: 0

In our Skilled Healthcare area, as of today, we have collected 52 tests and they are being sent out this evening to the lab. We expect those and the few remaining staff members to be reported yet this week.

A reminder our testing protocol is as follows for Assisted Living and Skilled Healthcare residents:

Residents who are symptomatic (exhibiting specified signs or symptoms of the Coronavirus)
Residents with pre-existing conditions
Residents which are healthy and have no symptoms of the Coronavirus.

Following the news regarding COVID-19 can be frustrating at best and overwhelming at its worst. In our view, this is not due to the negligence of the media, but symptomatic of the incredibly rapid rate of change each day of the COVID-19 virus. We support all who are trying to bring the most current and best information to you in real time.

After posting fact after fact about our own situation. We want to pause. Pause to focus on the positives which ARE also occurring locally, in our state and nationally. There ARE people recovering from COVID-19 at Hubbard and in the world around us, there ARE facilities receiving positive results and keeping it contained (including Hubbard Hill), there IS testing going on in facilities, there IS a slow movement towards providing more tests to Seniors gaining momentum each day, there ARE prayers being answered, there ARE more PPE’s coming through, there IS a true sense of oneness at Hubbard Hill and in our communities, there IS a God in whom we can rely upon for our safety, peace, love, compassion, patience, understanding, and healing. There IS an end to this and our God is with us every step of the way. Can we do more? Of course, we can, and we strive each day to learn and improve, for our residents, for our staff, and for you-our families and community. We CAN do it…. arm in arm…together. Peace be with you.

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

As we were finishing up with staff testing for Assisted Living, Rehab, and Healthcare today, we received notification from the lab their computer system is down and are not transmitting any further results today. The sheer volume of tests they are processing for many healthcare facilities must be daunting. It goes without saying we understand how frustrating this is for you (and us!) but we fully anticipate receiving final staff results as we begin resident testing tomorrow as well.

To reiterate: Staff test results as of this posting, (results unchanged from yesterday):
- 142 staff members testing negative
- 0 staff members testing positive
Again, we will provide this information in real-time as it becomes readily available.

A reminder our testing protocol will be as follows for Assisted Living, Rehab, and Healthcare residents:

Residents who are symptomatic (exhibiting specified signs or symptoms of the Coronavirus)
Residents with pre-existing conditions
Residents which are healthy and have no symptoms of the Coronavirus.

To all who have joined us on this journey, we post daily, not only for the primary benefit of our families, but also to help the community wade through the volumes of noise being presented from all corners. At the end of the day, we can only comment on what we see happening and experience here in our area. So, it is our intent to help educate the community on the things you truly need to know and understand. If we help one person-it worked.

As we continue, we will advocate on behalf of all nursing homes to receive much-needed supplies, PPE’s, and testing kits. It has only been in the past few days many Governors have coalesced and made their voices heard for nursing homes. That is a big step! The policy from the earliest days of the pandemic has been to ONLY allow testing of people presenting symptoms, after they are sick – NO Exceptions! Additionally, more and more of the media are making the case as well, hoping to get the attention of decision makers at the highest level possible-which may well be Governors. Please make your voices heard as well!

Governors and other regulatory bodies have also determined nursing homes must be abundantly transparent with families and caregivers regarding the status of their loved ones, testing, how they are being treated, and most importantly, the number of cases in their facilities. When we embarked on this journey, we determined we had nothing to lose and everything to gain by doing just that. Our families have responded extremely positively to our daily updates which help them not only make decisions but give them peace of mind.

Most people have not made the connection between the need for testing and flattening the virus curve. The term asymptomatic has been used frequently, and again, many do not understand what it means and why you should care!

Over 50% of the COVID-19 reported cases have been associated with asymptomatic patients. That is, they were not exhibiting or producing symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, but were carriers. Testing is the only way to detect an asymptomatic condition as there is no other way to confirm a positive result. What does it mean to you? Imagine standing in line at your local grocery store. A person in front of you turns around, sneezes, does not cover their mouth…and that person was COVID-19 asymptomatic. You have now been directly exposed to the virus. Asymptomatic individuals are like a ticking bomb because they are unaware of their condition and may or may not be taking necessary precautions.

We believe testing is the only way to truly harness this virus and save lives. Most importantly, for nursing home residents, we need testing to occur for staff, visitors, and new admissions BEFORE they have direct contact with our population to be able to safeguard those most susceptible to covid-not after! Preventative testing is as important as disease testing AFTER SYMPTOMS to confirm presence of the COVID virus. Testing can save lives if utilized as a preventative tool.

In closing, the more people tested, the more our society and economy can safely and slowly open. Nursing home residents and their families who are tested and receive negative results can safely return to each other sooner. Access will be restored!

We ask families, caregivers and community to visit our website, hubbardhill.org which will have the most current information collected throughout the day. Moving forward, we will make every attempt to post communication by late afternoon, contingent upon events of the day. If you have not heard directly from us, you may rest assured your loved one is safe, and under the watchful and loving eyes of our skilled staff-who care deeply for your loved ones.

Please keep our staff in your prayers as we ask God’s Grace, Strength and Peace as they continue to beautifully give their all, and for their safety in their commitment to this calling to serve. Know that all of you are in our hearts and our prayers always!

Monday, April 20, 2020

Our good fortune continues today with testing focused again on Assisted Living, Healthcare, and Therapy staff members. As of this posting, the following results for staff members tested are ALL negative! This total includes 7 new negative results received today.

TOTAL STAFF TESTED 142
- Total staff positive: 0
- Total staff negative: 142

LWC UPDATE
- To ensure the safety of all staff and residents in LWC, this morning we installed a medical-grade temporary wall outside the quarantined household to offer another layer of infection control mitigation in LWC.
  - We want to give a huge shout out and huge thanks to Bob Shrock and his team at DJ Construction for this generous donation as well as N95 masks when we urgently needed them! Community at work!
- Virus containment focus continues in LWC and is going well.
We continue to outreach to other community organizations to collaborate in this battle and aid where and when possible.

Thank you to all for your ongoing support!

Sunday, April 19, 2020

Today we are shifting our testing reporting focus to Assisted Living, Healthcare, and Therapy. Of course, if a change in status occurs in Living Wisdom Center it will be reported, but the virus is presently contained in the LWC. More good news to report!

Also, to reiterate if your loved one has a change in condition or is impacted directly, the family responsible party will be contacted.

As of this posting, there have been 135 staff members tested in those 3 service areas and all tests were negative!!

TOTAL TESTED 135
- Total staff positive: 0
- Total staff negative: 135

Needless to say, keep those prayers coming! We are so very grateful!

Normal reporting will resume tomorrow!

Needless to say, keep those prayers coming! We are so very grateful!
Normal reporting will resume tomorrow!

Saturday, April 18, 2020

HALLELUJAH,

What a remarkable, emotional journey the past seven days have been. We are humbled today to share the final Living Wisdom Center test results are completed with staff and residents, and there are NO NEW COVID-19 positive results!!! For today, at this posting, we have officially contained the virus in the Living Wisdom Center for Dementia Care!! Praise the Lord!!!!

Here is where we stand at the conclusion of LIVING WISDOM CENTER for DEMENTIA CARE testing:

TOTAL TESTED 100%
- 100% Residents tested: 29
- 100% Staff tested: 43
- TOTAL TESTED: 72
TOTAL POSITIVE COVID-19
- Residents: 8
- Staff: 5
- TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES: 13
TOTAL NEGATIVE COVID-19 CASES
- Residents: 21
- Staff: 38
- TOTAL NEGATIVE TESTS: 59

At this point, I would characterize our team as joyful, hugely relieved, cautiously optimistic, yet sober in our resolution to finish the job. Like so many of our families, there were tears of joy that permeated our entire team when that final test results came in. I am immensely proud of our talented, skilled, and courageous team and the efforts put forth this past 7 days since our initial confirmed case. Wrapping our arms around this in a 7-day window could not have been accomplished without the grace of God and a wholly committed staff.

Additionally, thank you is simply not enough to Elkhart General Hospital and their leadership for the testing kits which was truly the mitigating factor in our ability to contain the virus today. I cannot stress enough the importance of obtaining these critical tests for all facilities nationwide which are truly life- saving. Knowledge in this case, is truly power. Testing is the single most important factor which will save lives in senior care facilities that care for the most vulnerable population. We will relentlessly advocate for testing resources to be made available to Seniors BEFORE symptoms present. They deserve our best efforts to protect their safety and well-being and this is not happening!

But as I said, we are not out of the woods here, in this community and in this nation. We need to remain vigilant in our containment of this virus here and in our community. We are continuing compliance with social distancing, more testing, contact tracing and quarantine. We urge you to remain compliant with CDC guidance in social distancing and remaining at home. This virus is just now hitting our area and we urge you to exercise good judgment in your activities.

As always, we thank our families and caregivers for your patience this week as we did our absolute best to try and balance the 24 hour a day care and vigilance to contain this virus while keeping you informed.

Again, we celebrate today for a mere moment but promise you will be notified in real-time if your loved one experiences any change of condition or anything directly impacting your loved one.

Moving forward, we have systematically already started rolling out the testing protocol to staff and residents in Assisted Living, Rehab and Healthcare. Our protocol is to test staff members first, as they have the broadest reach and frequency of direct resident contact. Next, are residents who are symptomatic-(those who are presenting specified symptoms of the COVID-19 virus) followed by residents with pre-existing conditions. Lastly, we will test the balance of the resident population who are in good health and have no symptoms.

We ask families and caregivers to visit our website, hubbardhill.org which will have the most current information collected throughout the day. Moving forward, we will make every attempt to post that communication by late afternoon, contingent upon events of the day. If you have not heard directly from us, you may rest assured your loved one is safe, and under the watchful and loving eyes of our skilled staff-who care deeply for your loved ones.

Please keep our staff in your prayers as we ask God’s Grace, Strength, and Peace as they continue to beautifully give their all, and for their safety in their commitment to this calling to serve. Know that all of you are in our hearts and our prayers always! Thank you again from all of us at Hubbard Hill for your loving notes, posts, food, support, and prayers during these trying times. We do pay attention and it means so very much!

Friday, April 17, 2020

We have begun receiving the first portion of the results of the Living Wisdom Center COVID-19 testing for all staff and residents today. The results come in phases due to the tremendous volume of testing being analyzed in the laboratories. As of this posting, we report the following results for today:

3 staff members testing positive / 9 staff members testing negative
0 residents testing positive / 9 residents testing negative

Again, we will provide this information in real-time as it becomes readily available.

As we mentioned yesterday, you will be notified in real-time if your loved one experiences any change of condition or anything directly impacting your loved one. As results return, our protocol is for a Living Wisdom Center leadership team member to notify families or caregivers of the result in real-time. These test results are not being returned to us in the batches in which they were sent. They are returning in a drip, not a flood. We appreciate your patience and understand how difficult this is for you.

Moving forward, we are systematically rolling out the testing protocol to residents and staff in the main building of the campus. Our protocol is to test staff members first, as they have the broadest reach and frequency of direct resident contact. Second, are residents who are symptomatic-(those who are presenting specified symptoms of the COVID-19 virus). Lastly, we will test the balance of the resident population.

For your information, the Indiana Department of Health has now put audit protocols in place for all facilities experiencing multiple COVID-19 cases. This means they will be at Hubbard Hill and most other facilities in the area daily monitoring infection control protocol, reviewing virus and test data in detail, inspecting the facility and internal controls. They have already visited Hubbard Hill twice and their feedback was positive and we’re pleased with the steps we have taken, our transparency, reporting, and compliance. We welcome their presence yet another safeguard or set of eyes to ensure not a single detail is overlooked.

Thursday, April 16, 2020

No new COVID-19 cases at Living Wisdom Center today

We have completed Living Wisdom Center COVID-19 testing for all staff and residents today and are awaiting all test results. As of today, we have no new positive cases. We will again forward this information as it becomes readily available. We cannot emphasize what a game-changer having testing kits means to our ability to manage and care with accurate information. Thank God for this wonderful gift we have received!

Once again, we are making an impassioned plea to families and caregivers to refrain from calling Hubbard Hill or Hubbard Hill staff members directly with inquiries about your family members. Our clinical professionals are working diligently every day for hours on end caring, monitoring, and ensuring the safety and health of your loved ones. The volume of phone calls has understandably increased dramatically and we simply cannot afford to stop our critical work to field all the calls.

Be assured, as is our ongoing policy and commitment, you will be notified in real-time if your loved one experiences any change of condition or anything directly impacts your loved one. We ask families and caregivers to visit our website, hubbardhill.org which will have the most current information collected throughout the day. Moving forward, we will make every attempt to post that communication earlier in the afternoon, contingent upon events of the day. If you have not heard directly from us, you may rest assured your loved one is safe, and under the watchful and loving eyes of our skilled staff-who care deeply for your loved ones. I have been personally deeply moved by the courage and compassion of the Hubbard team as they care for our residents as though they were their very own family members.

We ask you to keep our staff in your prayers as we ask God for his continued love, care, wisdom, and safety in their commitment to this calling to serve.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

More positive cases for Living Wisdom Center as testing continues

Since receiving the initial shipment of COVID-19 testing kits this week, we have initiated testing protocol for all residents and staff of Living Wisdom Center for Dementia Care. As you have seen and heard in the media, as testing numbers increase, so predictably do the number of positive diagnoses. And this has been the case at Hubbard Hill as well.

Testing residents and staff began 4/14 and we now can confirm 6 additional residents and 2 employees have positively tested for COVID-19. It is also important to understand these numbers are not representative of 8 more persons “catching the virus”, but rather being identified as carrying the virus through testing.

You may have heard the term “asymptomatic” in the media, and that simply means someone is carrying the virus without producing or exhibiting symptoms. Anyone anywhere could currently be asymptomatic, not aware they are a carrier of the virus. This makes it even more challenging and critical to test everyone at our facility-and we are.

Prior to the virus escalation, contingency planning for repurposing an LWC household was initiated in order to convert it to a locked-down, quarantine unit if needed. With the latest diagnoses, those residents with positive diagnoses were moved into the designated quarantined household. We expect to complete the testing of all Living Wisdom Center residents and staff no later than Friday.

Prioritizing testing is not arbitrary and follows the CDC flattening the virus curve model:

Social distancing
Testing (residents presenting symptoms first)
Contact Tracing (testing those with most recent contact with resident)
Quarantine

We are concurrently exercising contact tracing in conjunction with testing to ensure we capture any and all persons from HH who have been in most recent contact with a resident with a positive diagnosis. This process will help ensure the safety of all residents and staff while preventing the spread of the virus.

As our final test kits arrive, we will be systematically testing residents and staff throughout the Hubbard Hill campus. Once this process is complete, we will be in a better position to manage the virus utilizing data-based decisions.

We want to assure you when we utilize the word “rapid” response, that is exactly what we mean. Our plan is in place and activated the moment we suspect or confirm a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Today, we received a second positive COVID-19 diagnosis in the Living Wisdom Center for Dementia Care. The resident was tested rapidly after suspected symptoms were observed. The resident is being monitored for critical virus symptomology.

As mentioned yesterday, we have received testing kits and are in the process of testing every Living Wisdom Center resident as well as Living Wisdom staff members. We will keep you apprised of updates as they become available. As we just recently received this confirmation, we will be updating the web site again tomorrow sharing details of our evolving rapid response protocol activation.

We are committed to keeping you informed as quickly as reasonably possible as facts present themselves and will continue to do so at hubbardhill.org.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we manage this crisis moment by moment.

Monday, April 13, 2020

Knock and the door will be opened… I am pleased to share some positive news of progress! Yesterday afternoon, after sharing the heartbreaking news of our first positive Corona Virus diagnosis, we received word of test kits available for Hubbard Hill!

Suffice to say, sharing that positive test result on Easter morning was gut-wrenching as we have worked soo hard to mitigate this invisible threat. However, as we were putting our response plans in place, the blessings of God’s grace came to us with news we are receiving Corona Virus testing kits, enough to test Living Wisdom Center residents and staff!!! Halleluiah! And there is more! We also received great news we are receiving additional masks and face shields to supplement our current inventories! God is good!

These blessings are a result of our ongoing communication and collaboration with community healthcare organizations and specifically, Elkhart General Hospital. We are truly blessed and grateful for the hearts of those healthcare professionals who see a need and move heaven and earth to help meet the need. Thank you EGH!

I would also like to take a moment to help address some misconceptions of long-term care facilities, nursing homes, senior living facilities- all these terms are used in the media. News outlets are sadly and accurately reporting the increasing death rates in these facilities. Some of the questions we have received recently have led us to believe people may need some clarification.

Please understand the reason these numbers are precipitously high is not because facilities are not exercising compliant disease control. It is because this population is the most vulnerable and sadly, testing and treatments are not readily available to these facilities. It is a challenge, to say the least, but know that our Hubbard staff are trained and vigilant in doing everything in their power to protect your loved ones entrusted to us.

We will be posting more frequently as this fluid situation continues to unfold. Please make hubbardhill.org your destination for all things COVID-19 and Hubbard Hill.

Continued blessings to you and yours,
Patrick

Sunday, April 12, 2020

Message from Patrick Pingel, CEO:

Good morning and Happy Easter!

I am with you today to share that this morning we experienced our first positive test for the Corona Virus at Hubbard Hill following the rapid response team meeting early this morning. The resident was recently admitted to the Living Wisdom Center for Dementia Care and was still in quarantine and compliant with the CDC/Indiana Board of Health quarantine guidelines.

We are very pleased our new admission quarantine protocol worked as planned to ensure each new resident is virus-free. In this case we caught it in a timely basis during quarantine. This resident has been totally separated from the general population and at no time has come into contact with other residents since arrival. The isolation area of the Living Wisdom Center is totally separated from any household and in fact is outside all locked doors leading to the households.

The resident began presenting suspected symptoms, temperatures monitored and tracked, was subsequently tested and the positive virus result caught immediately. The resident currently remains in the isolation/quarantined area. Living Wisdom staff will now upgrade their PPE (personal protection equipment) to include N95 masks in addition to their current protocol.

Moving forward, the resident will be attended by designated staff members (kept at a minimum) to avoid any risk of contamination between staff. Should the virus progress beyond Hubbard Hill care capabilities, the resident will be moved to the hospital.

I want you to know I have been consistently appealing to our state representative and emergency leaders to provide testing kits for Hubbard Hill enabling them to identify the virus before residents present symptoms. Like every facility in the country, there are no exceptions to testing protocol prior to presenting symptoms and we know is too late. The problem also stems from the fact there is currently no one advocating for senior care facilities and their staff. Rest assured, we are relentlessly pursuing these testing resources.

Let me address family and staff concerns regarding risk. Given the locked-down nature of the facility and compliance with CDC/IDH directives, no other residents or staff are at immediate risk of the virus. I want to be clear; this resident has not been integrated with any other residents since arrival.

We are confident the incidence, in this case, was not due to any material breach by Hubbard Hill staff of Hubbard Hill, CDC, or Indiana Department of Health protocols. However, to err on the conservative side, new admissions are suspended in the Living Wisdom Center until further notice. Furthermore, we are near completion of a totally secure isolation/quarantine unit in skilled nursing with walls being built to make it a totally contained unit to protect both residents and staff should another positive diagnosis emerge. I want to give credit to my team for adhering to protocols and following the rapid response plan enabling them to fully address the situation swiftly and comprehensively. We want to assure families, caregivers and staff that we continue to exercise extraordinary caution and compliance with all federal, state and regulatory agencies and are unwavering in our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for both resident and staff safety.

– Patrick

Friday, April 10, 2020

All dining will be “in room” service until further notice.

As we navigate the moment by moment evolution of the COVID-19 virus and its impact, we are again faced with the next phase of the disease and related consequences. We are truly blessed we have thus far avoided a confirmed case of the virus. Our vigilant adherence to governmental and regulatory guidelines have contributed to our success. Our ability to anticipate and respond immediately has been a key factor.

So we are now receiving CDC and Indiana State Board of Health directives to suspend communal dining until further notice. We hold ourselves accountable to respond to facts and in this case, they are clear. An assisted living facility in the state has now experienced 11 deaths all traced to the communal dining experience. So, starting at the Friday evening meal,(4/10) we are suspending communal dining in all dining rooms and implementing in-room dining for all residents (with the exception of Living Wisdom Center) until further notice.

This action, we believe, is a measured and appropriate response to what is now a real and potentially devastating threat to the health and well-being of our residents. We do not take this decision lightly. We are acutely aware of how important the dining experience and related socialization is to our residents and their quality of life, but in this instance, the risk outweighs that benefit.

We appreciate your understanding and trust in us on this and all matters related to the COVID-19 virus. As always, you have our commitment to remain informed in real-time, discuss all reasonable options, and act in the best interest of our residents. We also understand some may be uncomfortable with this direction but hope you understand our goal is always to mitigate a very serious potential risk to our residents.

May God bless you and be with you this Easter season.

New on the Hill

Please see the notice regarding the new dining protocol on our website
We are very sensitive to the fact the duration of this pandemic makes removing your loved one from Hubbard Hill for a visit or even taking them out for a ride seems appealing. Please be reminded we strongly discourage removing your loved one for any reason. There is no safer place for them than where they are right now.
Additionally, please know that if you choose to take your resident out of the facility for any reason they will be subject to quarantine per CDC and State Board of Health guidelines.
All staff members continue wearing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to protect our residents. We have had a few questions regarding staff members coming and going (home) from Hubbard Hill and want to remind you:
- Every staff member is screened, temperature taken every shift/every day.
- PPE’s are worn by all staff members.
- Staff members do not touch residents unless it is directly related to their care
- Residents are pleased and appreciative to see PPE’s in place among staff

Ongoing COVID-19 Protocol

Please be reminded not to go to any windows on the Hubbard Hill campus during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Every staff member is screened daily prior to their shift for health status and current temperature.
All internal meetings are now conducted digitally, via phone, or in a setting compliant with social distancing.
To enable our healthcare staff to continue their vigilance we ask and reiterate the need for your cooperation by adhering to our ongoing visitation policy. No non-essential persons may enter any Hubbard Hill facility. This is to protect your loved ones, their neighbors, and staff.
Additionally, we are also restricting non-essential appointments for residents. Non-essential is defined as anything that is not directly related to their sustained clinical health and well-being. All residents please adhere to this policy.
Residents are doing remarkably well and have adjusted to the new normal with great understanding and gratitude for our efforts to protect their health.
Lastly, we also ask you try and limit your phone calls to the facility with various questions. We are making every attempt to address your questions on our website www.hubbardhill.org. We respectfully ask you not call Hubbard Hill directly unless you have an emergency or extraordinarily urgent need. You can count on our weekly update every Friday on our website and social media, and more frequently if time sensitive information becomes available.

Ongoing Communication with Residents

Communication with your loved ones is a top priority as we empathize and understand your concerns and desire to maintain contact with your loved ones.
- In the main Hubbard Hill facility, we offer Skype capabilities in the Skype room to residents to establish a face to face video conversation with you. Additionally, for those with mobile devices Facetime (Apple devices) or Duo (Android devices) is a great way to visually stay in touch.
- In the Living Wisdom Center, Zoom (similar to Skype) has been established with an ongoing schedule to communicate with your loved ones on a weekly basis and as needed. Contact Living Wisdom Center Program Coordinator: Scott Whenrey to schedule. We are trying our best to facilitate family needs but need to provide structure to enable our healthcare staff to do their most important jobs, care for and protect your loved ones.

Things You Should Know

We are vigilantly doing our part to “flatten the curve” of the COVID virus as you likely have heard and seen on television.
- We are accepting new residents who have completed rigorous screening in advance and comply with a prescribed period of isolation upon entry.
- Equipment availability? Do you have all you need and/or will need?
  - We continue to work closely with all government authorities to procure all the necessary supplies to meet our needs.
- Testing capabilities?
  - As you have likely seen on television testing capabilities are scarce across the country and are only available in a hospital or clinic setting. For those who are tested, the waiting period for results is currently 10+ days. During this period, we will, as always, be implementing universal precautions.
- Do you have enough staff should COVID incidence increases substantially?
  - Yes, currently we have enough staff to manage the situation. This is a national, regional, and local crisis and we are in constant contact with relevant governmental, regulatory and healthcare leadership in each of these areas.
- PLEASE NOTE: As of this posting, no one may qualify to be tested for COVID-19 without:
  - A doctor’s order (which you may go to the COVID-19 hotline and be examined digitally by a physician online.)
  - Exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms
  - To avoid overburdening the hospital system, please do not go to your local hospital without meeting these two criteria.

Friday, July 31, 2020

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More questions from family and friends:

Thursday, April 30, 2020

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