The Gift of Peace of Mind

The Gift of Peace of Mind

Shirley Widner was on her way home when she pulled out in front of another car on a flashing yellow signal. Her daughter, Martha Murphy, remembers the phone call from the hospital and the subsequent surgeries and long recovery afterward.

“My mother ended up having three surgeries since the wreck and then physical and occupational therapy. She lived at my house while she was recovering,” Martha said. “She’s said for years that she wanted to live at Wesley Woods of Newnan one day, when the time was right. After the wreck, our family decided this was the time, and my mother finally said she was ready.”

Shirley, who moved to Wesley Woods in February, quickly acclimated to her new home. She participates in many of the scheduled activities and trips, and even plays piano for church services and for resident entertainment.

“My mother has played the piano for most of her life, including playing for her Sunday School class at First Baptist of Newnan for years. Her wrist was injured badly in the accident and she was worried that she might not be able to play anymore,” Martha said. “However, her physical therapist thought it might be good for her wrist. So one day, she walked by a piano at Wesley Woods, sat down and played every hymn she knew! Now she plays several days a week.”

Martha adds that not only is her mother happy with the Wesley Woods lifestyle, but also it’s been a great relief to her and her siblings.

“Having our mother live at Wesley Woods has been such a blessing. When she still lived at home, we worried about her being alone and having to take care of the house,” she said. “At Wesley Woods, she doesn’t have to worry about cooking, cleaning or driving. And we don’t have to worry about her. We know she’s safe.”