Darcie Heberer, Life Enrichment Therapist, has an occupational therapy assistant degree from Fox Valley Technical College. After completing her degree, Darcie worked in both activities and therapy, but when a full-time life enrichment position became available, she grabbed the opportunity. “I had more interest in the activity side of things because I like the variety, and could use my occupational therapy skills to adapt activities to the needs of residents, but in a creative way,” says Darcie.
She has worked at Cedar Community for over 30 years. Oftentimes, residents will mention a past interest or hobby, and the team members will adapt that activity to meet the residents’ ability levels. “There is always a way to adapt an activity to make it work for the resident. I had a resident who enjoyed quilting, so I got a sewing machine from one of our other campuses, and together we worked on a pattern,” says Darcie. “The resident worked the foot pedal and pieced the blocks of fabric together for me to sew,” says Darcie. The quilt was almost complete when the resident’s health suddenly declined. Darcie finished the quilt at her bedside and when the sewing machine started, she opened her eyes and turned toward the sound. The resident passed a few days later, with the quilt on her bed. “I notice something they enjoy and try to incorporate it into an activity the residents can do,” says Darcie. She says she feels like a consistent presence in their lives, and doesn’t see herself going anywhere.
