12/18/2025
A family member of one of our sweet residents wrote something lovely about the Cheyenne Medical Lodge resident Christmas party and it is certainly worth sharing. We appreciate all of our families, friends and healthcare partners who are so generous to give of their time and money to make sure our residents feel included. The words of a family member are just so eloquent that we wanted to share.
"The Angel Tree at Cheyenne: A Christmas of Love and Light and Kindness"
It’s that time of the year again – Christmas, a season of love, laughter, and togetherness. For the residents of the nursing home, where my mother has called home for the past few years, the annual Christmas celebration is a highlight of their calendar. A day when the usual routines are put aside, and the spirit of the festive season is reignited.
As I stepped into the nursing home yesterday, I was immediately enveloped in a warm and festive atmosphere. The air was alive with excitement and anticipation, as the residents eagerly awaited the Christmas celebration. The staff had gone above and beyond to ensure that every single resident felt seen, loved, and remembered during this holiday season.
The angel tree, adorned with anonymous angels, each representing a resident, stood tall and proud in the common area. The angels had all been selected and were identified only by a number, age, s*x, and a brief list of sizes and wishes. It was a beautiful testament to the selflessness and kindness of the staff, visitors, and family members who had chosen to sponsor a resident, bringing joy and surprise to those who might otherwise feel forgotten.
As the time of the party drew closer, the residents began to gather, their wheelchairs and walkers at the ready, like eager children waiting for Santa's arrival. The staff and nurses worked tirelessly to carry in the countless gifts, their faces beaming with excitement and love. It took 10 or more of them making at least 2 trips or more nearly 30 minutes to bring in all the presents, a true labor of love.
And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for – Santa Claus himself arrived, his jolly laughter and twinkling eyes spreading joy to all. The residents couldn't wait have their photo taken with the big man, wheelchairs, walkers, and all. Even the Grinch showed up…The room was filled with laughter, chatter, holiday music, and the sound of cameras snapping, as the magic of Christmas was brought to life.
As I watched the residents receive their gifts, their faces lit up with delight, I felt a sense of wonder and joy fill my heart. It was a truly inclusive and loving celebration where everyone, regardless of age, color, beliefs, or disability, was treated like a cherished child-the cherished child born thousands of years ago under a bright Star.
In that moment, I was reminded of the profound wisdom of the season. Christmas is not just a time for gift-giving or festive feasts; it's a time for connection, compassion, and kindness. It's a time to remember that every single person, no matter what their circumstances, deserves to be loved, seen, and remembered. I knew that this Christmas celebration would be one they would treasure forever. And I knew that I, too, would carry the memory of this special day in my heart, a reminder of the transformative power of love and kindness.
Thank you to all of you at Cheyenne.
Merry Christmas,
Peace, love, joy, and kindness,
