Operation Surprise Anniversary

_{June 2, 2023}
When you think of love, it can be the most wonderful feeling. It’s the butterflies and giggles you get to share with a special someone and the surprise gifts you get to give them. The team at Salem Woods wants our residents to continue to find ways to show their love for their families, even if it's unconventional.

Our team was approached with a dilemma by one of our residents, Robert Poppe. This wasn’t a facility complaint; he was upset that he could not give his wife, Julie, the anniversary dinner and gift she deserved. Mr. Poppe went directly to our DON, Diana Potts, expressing that he wanted to do something special for his wife.



After talking with Mr. Poppe, Diana went to Tanna Wheeler, Admissions Director, and Bessie Maysc, Kitchen Supervisor, and they came up with the plan, “Operation Surprise Anniversary." The game plan was to create a private, romantic evening where they could enjoy a nice dinner together at the facility.

In a flash, Tanna went out to get the necessary supplies to make Julie's heart flutter. Mr. Poppe described her favorite flowers and colors so that she could be presented with some of her favorite things to make her smile. Bessie crafted a dinner for them that ended with rich milkshakes. Julia was shocked with delight sharing, "It was an amazing surprise! It was nice to have a great dinner with him again."



Julie is very thankful for the care and kindness Salem Woods has shown her and her husband. Our team is honored to demonstrate how much we care for each individual in our facility. This is why we do what we do. If we can make a difference in someone's day, or year, that makes it all worth it.