Leslie Goodfellow

At the age of 93, my mother-in-law was struggling to live by herself and led a rather isolated life. After she was hospitalized for a medical emergency, I began researching and visiting several assisting living and memory care residential homes in the Plano and Frisco areas for immediate placement. She needed a higher level of care than what we were providing, and I hoped to find a community that would brighten her living circumstances. Some facilities offered what appeared to be well established programs but hallways, elevators and gathering areas felt crowded. Others offered impressive hotel like amenities upon entry, but individual rooms and activity areas were extremely small. After investigating at least six different residential homes, I felt uneasy about having to make what I considered an agonizing decision. Fortunately, I decided to make one more visit and met with Godwin Dixon, co-owner of Theresa’s House in McKinney. As he led me on an extensive tour of both their assisted living and memory care village, he repeatedly explained why the home-like residences, programs, and employees at Theresa’s House were “the best of the best,” and I immediately saw the differences. We walked past six beautiful, ranch style homes situated on immaculately maintained lawns, gardens, outdoor porches and walking paths. Inside each home, I viewed clean, spacious open living areas with central kitchens for gathering and socializing. Tables were set with linen awaiting lunch-time diners. Individual rooms were brightly lit with large windows and modern bathrooms were easily accessible. This was no longer a difficult decision. I had found the right place for our loved one and family. The team at Theresa’s House worked quickly and efficiently to help us make a smooth transition, and they assisted us in arranging needed hospice care. While my mother-in-law met this new change with initial resistance, within days she was calling her caregivers and neighbors her new friends. She told me daily, “They take good care of me here.” As a family, we visited often, and every time we did we were greeted warmly. Any concerns or questions about her day were addressed immediately. The residents and their families participated in a variety of events, including an outdoor “Summer Bash” with live music, games, and a barbeque feast. Their family of employees felt like our family. We are grateful for the exceptional care provided by all of the nursing staff and caregivers in house two… William, Leah, Reemah, Ginnika, Pilar, Momina, Mardiyah, Geraldine, Jolie, Funmi, Milka, Becky, Chestine, and Eyabora. My mother-in-law was treated like a queen, being greeted each day with the kindest of words and gentle care. Our personal experience can validate that Theresa’s House is indeed “the best of the best!