|
|
|
|
|
Guitar-playing resident finds his stage at Lanark Heights
Ronald, a new resident, charms audience with country tunes and singalongs during heartfelt performance
6/25/2025
-
Deron Hamel
|
|
Lanark Heights resident Ronald and life enrichment manager Karla Verdesoto pose for a photo after a concert Ronald played for residents.
|
|
A new Lanark Heights resident recently showcased his musical talents for everyone when he performed a concert the Kitchener long-term care community organized.
The resident, named Ronald, “loves to play guitar,” so it was fitting that team members and music therapist Chelsea helped him share his music with everyone at Lanark Heights, says the home's life enrichment manager, Karla Verdesoto.
The idea for Ronald to host a show for residents came to Karla and Chelsea when they noticed he would usually bring his guitar to music therapy sessions. Ronald also said he would like to perform for residents at some point.
Lanark Heights administrator Hildy Nickel supported their idea, Karla adds, noting Lanark Heights tries to make residents' wishes come true.
Ronald's concert was met with mass approval from the more than 30 residents and team members who attended, Karla says.
“The event went better than I expected,” she tells S&R Today. “The residents had a blast. (Ronald) was nervous, but once he started singing, everybody loved it. We were joking that I will be his manager.”
Ronald, who was joined on stage by Chelsea, mostly played country songs, and he encouraged many in the audience to sing along, Karla notes.
“Everybody enjoyed the songs and sang with him,” she says. “Chelsea did a special introduction, as he is one our new residents.”
A highlight was watching all the residents singing along with Ronald when he performed You Are My Sunshine.
“Honestly, it was beautiful to see everyone singing together,” Karla says. “In the end, Ronald was over the moon from the experience.”
Do you have a story you would like to share with S&R Today? If so, please contact the newsroom at deron(at)axiomnews.com.
If you have feedback on this story, please e-mail deron(at)axiomnews.com.
|
|
|