St. Luke’s Home Foundation & Park Avenue Villa – Briggs

Jeff Briggs was born and raised in Wyoming. Jeff and his wife Connie lived near Patricia, Jeff’s mother, to care for her. When Patricia was diagnosed with diabetes, the three moved to Cody to accommodate her diabetes. In the three years Patricia was in the nursing home in Cody, she became very unresponsive. She never participated in the nursing home’s daily activities and she even stopped communicating with people. In 2005, Jeff was transferred with his job to Dickinson, North Dakota. He moved his mother with him and began looking for nursing homes. After consulting with his paster, Jeff decided to make St. Luke’s Home Patricia’s home. Jeff felt good about his decision because many people had good things to say and the staff was very friendly. One day, Jeff decided to visit his mother and, to his surprise, she was out shopping with a group of residents. Connie started participating in every event St. Luke’s had to offer. Connie participated in going to the bakery, shopping, and going out to eat.

Jeff and his wife were so pleased with the service they had received for Patricia that they began donating to St. Luke’s. Jeff has been a board member and agreed to a second five year term. He chairs the building and campaign committee. Jeff uses his talents and time to give back. Jeff always says, “You only get out of things what you put back into them.” St. Luke’s Home has given his mother and family so much that he has devoted all of his spare time and energy into giving back. Jeff recently participated in the planning of the new edition to St. Luke’s building. He says Patricia and the other residents are excited for the renovation, but the most important aspect of St. Luke’s is the way they are treated by the staff. Jeff has received a lot from this nursing home and he lives by giving back to those who give of their time, talent, and treasure.

Story by: Shaina Dolechek