Connections Magazine   |   Winter 2024

Connections Magazine

Winter 2024 Issue

In this issue:
Editor’s Note
President’s Message
Culinary Corner
Christmas Lunch
Information Session
Meaningful Mentors
Clinical Corner
President’s Town Hall
Community Spirit Grants
Shannex Crowned 2023 Carbon Hero
An Intergenerational Partnership
Transitional Care Centre
Whimsical Watercolours
Heroes Tribute
Order of New Brunswick
A Lifetime Achievement Award
Marion’s Creative Crafting  
The Celebration of Diwali
We Care About Quality of Life
Safer transfers, safer workplaces and safer c...
Celebration of Wreaths 
Powerful Poetry
We Caught You Being Safe
Culinary Centre Reaches New Safety Goal
Great People Portal Launches
Team Member Spotlight: Eric MacRae 
Melodies and Memories
Planning your preventative health care schedu...
Excelling in Leadership Program
Dorothy’s Rehabilitation Journey: Trium...
Nia’s Melody at Parkland on the Glen
Green Energy
Meeting Community Needs
New Communities
Saving For Retirement
Snapshots

Editor’s Note

February 21, 2024

Happy New Year!

Welcome to the 50th issue of Connections. Over the years, our team has lovingly created each edition and we feel privileged to share and celebrate extraordinary people and stories communities, including milestones, achievements, histories and special glimpses into everyday life at our Shannex, Parkland and Faubourg communities.  

This issue is no different. It is filled with beautiful, shared experiences between our Great People, residents, loved ones and community. Each one speaks to the special bonds that make our communities special and help those who live and work with us stay active, engaged, and celebrate the joy of life.  

Read about intergenerational activities for seniors and youth, catch a glimpse of how team members are staying safe while achieving great accomplishments, and view how teams work together to support residents, making sure they can reach their personal goals such as the touching rehabilitation story.  

Enjoy these and many more stories in the following pages. As we embark on a new year, I hope it’s filled with opportunities and new beginnings for you and your families.

EDITOR: KATHERINE VANBUSKIRK

Residents and team members from Parkland at the Lakes enjoying their PJ Party around the festive tree.

President’s Message

February 21, 2024

Happy New Year and welcome to our Winter edition of Connections. As we continue through our 36th year of operation, we’re also nearing the end of the first year of our 2023-2028 strategic plan which provides clear direction on how we’ll achieve our vision of Leading the Way to Better Living

I am proud of the progress we are making, and this was validated by residents and families through the results of our annual Quality of Life survey. With more responses than ever before, we saw exceptional results and pointed feedback on areas of improvement.   

For us, 2024 will also be a season of growth, with a strong focus on creating additional long term care capacity in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Our government partners have placed their trust in us to help them achieve their goals and I am confident we will rise to the challenge. 

This year, we will also make progress on a new and innovative partnership with Nova Scotia Health to provide services at their province’s first Transitional Care Centre in West Bedford. By supporting patients in their recovery, outside of an acute care setting, we’re not only creating more hospital capacity, but filling the gap between traditional healthcare and community care.  

Shannex is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, and this means, we’re increasing efforts to attract and keep healthcare talent – through mentorship and Work and Learn programs, through international recruitment missions – we’re dedicated to meeting the needs of our growing communities in a myriad of ways. 

Leading up to the holiday season, I had the opportunity to visit several of our locations. Whether we’re gathered to raise funds for the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, hosting a holiday carnival on Eglington West, or serving a warm lunchtime meal for children in Saint John, I’m honoured to be on your team and proud of how you live our values every day. 

I wish you good health and bright horizons for the new year ahead!  

Jason, President

Nova Scotia Minister of Seniors and Long-Term Care Barbara Adams with Parkland at the Gardens General Manager Danielle McCormick, President and CEO of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia Starr Cunningham, Parkland at the Gardens resident and philanthropist Maureen Banyard and Shannex President Jason Shannon

Culinary Corner

February 21, 2024

Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge

Created by: Henry Brown, Corporate Chef, NS
Soothing memories of fall with a sweet, decadent filling


The Parkland Dining Experience

At Parkland, every detail has been considered to help you live your best life in retirement. Our culinary team takes pride in what they do and get to know each resident personally. 

Discover the flavours of Parkland

Ingredients
5 cups – Chocolate chips

100 ml – Margarine

200 ml – Peanut Butter

450 ml – Sweetened condensed milk

Method

  1. Melt margarine (on low heat) in a heavy-bottomed pot then add in the remaining ingredients.

2. Make sure all ingredients have melted.

3. Spray a loaf pan with a little non-stick spray. 

4. Pour into the loaf pan, and spread evenly. 

5. Refrigerate overnight. 

6. Cut and enjoy

Christmas Lunch

February 21, 2024

Parkland Saint John

Centennial School children, school staff, Parkland Saint John staff and residents enjoying Christmas lunch

In the spirit of giving, the Parkland Saint John team prepared and served a special Christmas lunch to 350 children and staff members at Centennial School in Saint John, New Brunswick. Parkland Saint John elves, including residents and team members, served the delicious turkey buffet with all the fixings.

Thank you to the team who made this festive lunch possible. A special thank you to Chef Terry who prepared the food and to Sous Chef Jeremy for being his right-hand man.



The Parkland Dining Experience

At Parkland, every detail has been considered to help you live your best life in retirement. Our culinary team takes pride in what they do and strives to know each resident personally. 

Discover the flavours of Parkland

Information Session

February 21, 2024
Kristina Comuzzi, Director of Sales and Jodi Bartlett, Sales Manager, New Developments, presenting at the Parkland at Bedford Square Information Session.

Parkland at Bedford Square

On November 16th and 30th, over 300 guests were introduced to Parkland at Bedford Square. Information sessions were held at Home Office, located across the street from the developing community.

Guests learned about the amenities, continuum of lifestyle options, and the many exciting features that will be coming to the new space.

View upcoming Parkland events

Meaningful Mentors

February 21, 2024

Colchester/Cumberland Region Enhanced Care

Sixteen continuing care assistants attended the newly rebooted CCA mentorship session held in the Colchester/Cumberland, NS region by Education Coordinator Jayne Barnhill.   

“I’m grateful for Jayne and all the team members who stepped forward to mentor our new staff and students,” said Kyle Richardson, the Enhanced Care Regional Manager.

Mentors at Shannex assist with the orientation of new employees and preceptor CCA students. Each Shannex mentor received a new scrub top with Mentor embroidered on the side of the sleeve to recognize the great work they do every day!   


Learn about Healthcare and Clinical careers at Shannex

CCAs Frances Riemersma, Donna MacDermid, Ashley Googoo, Sherry Rath
CCAs Chellcea O’Brien and Shelley Turner 
Tina Lent, CCA

Clinical Corner

February 21, 2024
Mrs. Pauline Gauvin, Losier Hall resident

Flu Season

By age 65 you’re at a much higher risk for serious complications from the flu. Flu symptoms appear 1 to 4 days after exposure to the virus. Usually, they include the sudden appearance of: 

  • fever 
  • cough 
  • muscle aches and pain 

If you do get sick, stay home to help prevent the spread of the flu. Avoid close contact with other people until you feel well enough to get back to your usual day-to-day activities.  Most people recover from the flu in 7 to 10 days. 

President’s Town Hall

February 21, 2024

Home Office

Our second All-Hands President’s Town Hall took place on December 5. The leadership team updated our Great People on several organizational initiatives like Quality of Life and Shannex Cares and also discussed how we’re working with governments in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to meet their communities’ needs for more long-term care.  

Shannex hosts Town Hall meetings quarterly to bring our teams across three provinces together to celebrate successes and share important updates.  

Community Spirit Grants

February 21, 2024

Through Shannex Cares, we are proud to partner with like-minded Elder Allies in our communities to influence positive change in the lives of seniors.

Our journey of supporting seniors started 35 years ago but, in the fall of 2022, we launched Shannex Cares, our community giving program. Through Shannex Cares, we associate ourselves with like-minded elder allies in the community. This allows us to build strong connections between the people who live and work with us and the greater community, influence real change and make a difference in the lives of seniors.   

On November 28, Giving Tuesday, we announced the latest recipients of our Shannex Cares Community Spirit Grants. Nine organizations in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Ontario that support projects and initiatives within our focus areas of seniors’ wellness, seniors’ active living, and seniors’ social connections were each awarded a $2,500 Community Spirit Grant to support more seniors in their community. Congratulations to everyone! 

  • Meals on Wheels Fredericton 
  • Moncton Lions Community Centre 
  • YMCA of Greater Saint John 
  • Stepping Stone Senior Centre in Fredericton  
  • Lucasville Community Association 
  • Portapique Market 
  • Sackville Seniors Advisory Council  
  • Operation Kindness Colchester 
  • Alzheimer Society of Durham Region 

Learn about Shannex Cares

Operation Kindness Volunteers

Shannex Crowned 2023 Carbon Hero

February 21, 2024
Kim MacDonald, Shannex VP of Property and Support Services accepts the 2023 Carbon Hero Award


In December, Shannex received the prestigious Carbon Hero Award at BOMA Nova Scotia’s Annual Holiday Luncheon. The award was presented in recognition of our outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. We are proud of this accolade which not only commends our efforts, but also recognizes our leadership work in the fight against climate change.  

We believe that everyone has a role to play in protecting the environment and that sustainable actions are more impactful when done together. We are the first Canadian Seniors’ Living Organization to receive ISO 50001 Certification and, in 2020, the organization implemented the Ecopilot® AI for HVAC software in seven communities.

Based on the success of this work, Shannex will install the AI solution across 24 more buildings, an ambitious project that is projected to save 3,830,000 KWh – or the equivalent of powering nearly 350 homes for an entire year! 


Learn how Shannex is committed to protecting the environment with an action plan that transforms the way we prioritize sustainability. 

Strategic Direction: Environmental Stewardship

An Intergenerational Partnership

February 21, 2024


Parkland in the Valley

Shannex is excited to collaborate with the YMCA South Western New Brunswick to establish a new childcare centre at Parkland in the Valley in Quispamsis, New Brunswick.

Research has proven the benefits of intergenerational activities and how community ties strengthen physical and cognitive well-being among seniors. We can’t wait to welcome children to this new space in early 2024.

This collaboration will also provide much-needed childcare options for our community, including our Great People, and create opportunities for residents to connect with kids.


Read another intergenerational event, Melodies and Memories

Transitional Care Centre

February 21, 2024

West Bedford

Transitional Care Centre, Hogan Court, West Bedford, NS

Shannex will provide health care services at Nova Scotia Health’s new Transitional Care Centre in West Bedford, Nova Scotia.

The model of care offered at this centre is designed to provide enhanced short-term services for patients who have completed their acute hospital stay but need more support before returning to the community. This innovative program fills a gap in the continuum of health services available to Nova Scotians between hospital care and community.

At the Transitional Care Centre, patients will partner in their care planning and work with clinicians, like occupational therapists and physiotherapists to prepare for their return home. Care and support will vary depending on individual care plans.The Transitional Care Centre will provide services to clients in the Halifax Regional Municipality and West Hants region of Nova Scotia.

Learn more about our Transitional Care Centre

Whimsical Watercolours

February 21, 2024

Parkland Clayton Park

Gary Chamberlain, resident at Parkland Clayton Park, Halifax, NS

As you enter Gary Chamberlain’s room at Parkland Clayton Park, you quickly see how his passion for art has created a space filled with bright colours and lifelong memories.

Gary is an artist at heart. Over the years, he has collected many beautiful paintings, from watercolour to oil, and has an extensive collection of his work ranging from Christmas cards to framed florals.

Gary has been an artist for many years. He loves working with watercolours and has learned a variety of techniques that add precise details to his art. The wondrous watercolour paintings are created from his imagination and are hand-created, so no two paintings are alike. With each stroke of the paintbrush, he has created a captivating work of art with a unique story. His talent and a keen eye for detail make his paintings breathtakingly beautiful.

Heroes Tribute

February 21, 2024

Shannex and Parkland Communities Honour Veterans

Remembrance Day ceremonies unfolded across various Shannex and Parkland locations in November with grateful, solemn reflection. 

At Bridgeview Hall Enhanced Care in Miramichi, NB, five distinguished veterans, Joseph Arsenault, Leonard Pitre, Joseph Yvonne, Jack Murphy, and Joseph Richardson, were honoured with a peaceful ceremony. 

Meanwhile, at Parkland at the Lakes, a retired Canadian Navy veteran, Owen Walton, shared his experiences with his neighbours and their guests. Master Corporal James Greenlay and his daughter, CCA Hannah Greenlay, visited Geneva Blunston, a Royal Canadian Air Force veteran living at Thomas Hall, NB. 

Parkland Saint John hosted a moving ceremony, with nine veterans attending, led by Royal Canadian Legion Lancaster Branch 69. The Falls Dining Room featured a touching photo slideshow featuring each veteran in their military uniform.

Genevea Blunston with the Greenlay family
Bridgeview Hall veterans: Joseph Arsenault, Leonard Pitre, Joseph Yvonne, Jack Murphy, and Joseph Richard

Order of New Brunswick

February 21, 2024

Frederick Hall

Frederick Hall resident Joanne E. McLeod received the Order of New Brunswick in recognition of her lifelong dedication to improving conditions for people with paraplegia or other mobility impairments.

Known as the first person with paraplegia to graduate from the University of New Brunswick (UNB). It was there she received her first degree before graduating from the UNB Faculty of Law. After her law degree, she joined the Department of Justice and, after three years, became the first woman appointed as Deputy Registrar of the New Brunswick Court of Appeal.

Thank you, Joanne, for championing the human rights of people with disabilities in New Brunswick and across Canada for over 60 years. Congratulations on this well-deserved award.

Front row, from le: Premier Blaine Higgs; Joanne E. McLeod; and The Honourable Brenda Murphy. Back row, from le: J.W. Bud Bird; Catherine Akagi; Bernard Poirier; and Isabelle McKee-Allain
Joanne E. McLeod, recipient of the Order of New Brunswick and Gordon McLean

A Lifetime Achievement Award

February 21, 2024

Parkland at the Gardens

Dr. Swaminathan, 97, a Parkland at the Gardens, Nova Scotia resident, received a lifetime achievement award this past fall for being the longest-known living person of Tamil origin in Halifax. 

Congratulations on a long life well lived, Dr. Swaminathan!


Watch Dr. Swaminathan receive his achievement award on the Maritime Tamil Welfare Association website.

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Marion’s Creative Crafting  

February 21, 2024

Arborstone Enhanced Care

Marion Wright started crafting in 1970 and hasn’t stopped. She loves creating art for her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Marion worked as a hospital ward clerk and learned from one of the patients how to create plastic canvas creations. “I learned from other people how to make my crafts, but I am now always trying to make them even better each time,” said Marion. 

Her room, where she spends endless hours crafting, is filled with many different pieces, from hats, mittens, ornaments and even baby toys. She often changes her cras to match the season’s special occasions, with her colourful crafts changing as each season arrives.

Her handiwork is in high demand at Arborstone Enhanced Care, NS, where residents and team members often request her beautiful work.

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The Celebration of Diwali

February 21, 2024
Akhil Sebastian, Anjana Bastian, Birbala Singh, Anjana Rajeswari, Bhavika Pithadiya, Jason Shannon, Dipasha Sahni, Simran Kaur Thind, Sukkhman Kaur, Kaushik Jadhav at Home Office, NS
Sita Kuruganti, resident of Regent Hall and her daughter Usha Kuruganti, Parkland Fredericton, NB.

Parkland Fredericton and Home Office

In November, team members and residents celebrated Diwali!

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is recognized in the Hindu, Sikhi and Jain faiths and is observed by cleaning and decorating your home with lights, exchanging gifts and sharing sweets with neighbours. 

“Diwali is incredibly special to me because it’s when we adorn our homes with colourful lights and beautiful rangoli designs, eat good food, and eat lots of sweets and chocolates. Most importantly, it brings friends and families together,” shared Simran Kaur Thind, Report Developer, Business Intelligence & Analytics. 

“The warmth of family gatherings, the joy of exchanging gis, and the lighting of diyas all around the house make Diwali a celebration that fills my heart with love and gratitude.”

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We Care About Quality of Life

February 21, 2024

In October, we completed The Quality of Life (QOL) surveys and reached a new response record in our communities.

We achieved an overall 70.82% positive response rating, a 3.83% increase over 2022. The QOL survey evaluates how residents and families feel about their Parkland or Enhanced Care community and includes topics like social life, dining, and recreational activities.

It’s through reviewing the survey results that we make important improvements based on what matters most to residents and their loved ones. Ensuring all our residents’ and families’ voices are heard requires much work at the site level, and this year’s survey’s success is thanks to Site Champions’ encouragement.

Thank you, Site Champions, for your support!

Rachel Dent, Recreation Coordinator at Embassy Hall, Provincial Site Champion Moncton
Cesar Barakat, Resident Experience Manager, Parkland Eglinton West, Provincial 
Site Champion Ontario
Angela MacAdam, Business 
Manager/Workforce Coordinator, Parkland Seton Campus-Caritas Residence, Provincial 
Site Champion, NS

Safer transfers, safer workplaces and safer care

February 21, 2024

The Safe Transfer and Repositioning Program is a cornerstone of resident care and a critical element in our health and safety program, which invests in best practice tools, techniques, technology and training to continuously improve our residents’ well–being–and our team members’ safety.

“Much like a chef with all the right ingredients, we have everything needed to craft a recipe for success in resident transfers and staff well-being. It’s the perfect blend of compassion, expertise, and technology that makes our program truly outstanding,” said Louise, Director of Health, Wellness and Safety.

At our Flight into the Future event on October 17th in Nova Scotia, our Health, Wellness and Safety team, Clinical Quality Improvement Specialist and vendor partners Arjo, Bellwether, and HandiCare brought together allied health team members and clinical managers for a day of learning. 

“We wanted this learning summit to reinforce that when we combine our best practices, technology, and trained team members, the magic happens and results in a safer environment for residents and staff,” said Louise.

The next session takes place on November 9th in New Brunswick.  

Celebration of Wreaths 

February 21, 2024

 

A Festive Fundraiser

Elder Ally, Maureen Banyard and Parkland at the Gardens raise community spirit and $25,000 for the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. 

Now in its second year, the Celebration of Wreaths, led by Parkland at the Gardens resident, Maureen Banyard, has become a heartwarming symbol of community engagement and support for seniors.

The event, which took place in December, brought together residents and community members in the spirit of giving and raised over $25,000. Guests had the opportunity to contribute by either donating a wreath or making direct contributions to the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia

“All funds raised go to support mental health. We in turn will take that funding to support community grants, many of which will support seniors in our communities,” said Starr Cunningham, CEO of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. 

“When we can help one person to improve their feelings and their health, I feel that we’ve supported them,” Maureen added 

The event, supported through Shannex Cares, strengthens the relationship between seniors and their community, symbolizing how simple acts, when driven by a sense of community, can create lasting positive change. Elder Allies, like Maureen, make a difference by supporting and developing visible, meaningful opportunities for elders to be seen, heard, and valued. 

“It’s so critically important to connect with seniors over the holidays. When you look at an event like this, that’s exactly what it is. It’s connecting seniors to their community,” said Starr. 

Learn more about Shannex Cares at Shannex.com/ShannexCares 

Maureen Banyard stands with Jason Shannon

Powerful Poetry

February 21, 2024
Roger LeFrank, Lillian Appleby, Bev Delorey, John Cowans, Rosaleen Hubley.

Parkland Clayton Park

Beautiful poetry has bonded residents at Parkland Clayton Park.

The Pondering Poetry Group gathers once a month to share their inspiring words. The group discusses each poem in detail and shares their interpretations of the meaning. Occasionally; members will share some of their written poems, which is a delightful treat for all. 

“I enjoy poetry and it’s a pleasure to meet with friends once a month to share thoughts about our favorite poems and poets,” said resident Bev Delorey. “It’s a special joy to hear the poems written by others in our group.” 

Through the love of powerful poems, the group has created strong connections to their emotions and to each other.

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We Caught You Being Safe

February 21, 2024

This Winter, we are recognizing team members nominated for the “Caught You Being Safe” awards. These awards are dedicated to team members striving to make our communities and workplaces safer.

Kim Brown, Long Term Care Assistant, Elk Court, NS 

Kim Brown has been with Elk Court since 2014. She started as a Support Service Attendant and moved into a Long Term Care Assistant role in 2023. Kim is a dedicated team member and continuously sanitizes surfaces to keep residents and team members safe. Elk Court appreciates Kim’s hard work and commitment to safety and well-being

Jessica Mananghaya, Registered Practical Nurse, Parkland on the Glen, ON

Jessica has been a nurse at Parkland on the Glen since 2012. She is a valuable team member and lives our Guiding Principles every day. She demonstrates her belief in our safety culture through her visible leadership. We are proud to have such a caring and dedicated team members.

Marie-Christine Roussel, Restorative Rehab Coordinator, Faubourg du Mascaret, NB

Marie-Christine does exceptional work with residents by bringing a positive attitude and high energy to all daily tasks. She brings a distinct purpose to our residents’ daily mobility activities, and does it safely. Marie-Christine is reliable and always open to helping other team members.

Culinary Centre Reaches New Safety Goal

February 21, 2024
Paul Pothier, Production Cook

Shannex Culinary Centre

In October, the Nova Scotia Culinary Centre achieved 12 consecutive months of perfect Safety Profile Scores (SPS). The SPS measures safety performance within every Shannex, Parkland and Faubourg Community, and the Culinary Centre is the first division to achieve this 12-month accomplishment. 

“Achieving this accomplishment wouldn’t have been possible without the whole team actively involved and working safely. Congratulations to the team and to Katelyn Whittaker, Culinary Production Manager for making this happen.” Dana Schiefer, Shannex’s Chief Culinary Officer.

To have a perfect score, the team had to meet the following qualifications successfully: 

  • Eighty percent of staff have their mandatory safety training. 
  • Safety inspections must identify seven hazards, actions, or opportunities for improving safety. 
  • The Joint Occupational Health & Safety Committee (JOHSC) needs to have a minimum number of members, do their inspections, make a recommendation, and share a safety message. 
  • At least two monthly team members must be nominated for the Caught You Being Safe recognition.
  • Safety communication must be posted and visible to the staff as per their right to know under occupational health legislation. 
  • There should be zero or very few team members off on Workers’ Compensation Board claims, indicating less severe incidents and a best practice for return to work.

This fast-paced kitchen environment delivers food to most of Shannex’s long-term care communities throughout Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. It produces roughly 5,000 meals daily and around 664,950 homemade cookies annually.

Jorde Boutilier and Kate Rankin, Bakers 

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Great People Portal Launches

February 21, 2024

The Great People Portal is a hub with tools and resources to support our Great People as they grow their career at Shannex.Visit the portal to access the tools and resources you need, such as:

  • Compensation: Gain insights into your compensation details through the Great People Portal, where you will find quick links to payroll tools like QSS and Kronos.
  • Benefits: Stay informed about the many benefits and perks available to you and your family.
  • Learning and Development: Explore learning and development opportunities tailored to your professional advancement and fostering a culture of improvement.
  • Performance and Recognition: Discover and participate in rewards and recognition programs that celebrate your contributions, fostering a culture of appreciation.
  • Work Life: Achieve a better work-life balance with resources and tools aimed at supporting your overall wellbeing.

Contact GreatIdeas@Shannex.com for more information

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Team Member Spotlight: Eric MacRae 

February 21, 2024

Home Office

As General Counsel, Eric provides strategic legal and business advice to Shannex’s management team. Eric is responsible for legal operations and risk management throughout Shannex, including overseeing the health, wellness, and safety teams.

Eric has extensive experience in private practice and as in-house counsel, advising on corporate transactions, financing arrangements, complex commercial agreements, business disputes, and general corporate and commercial matters. He began his legal career with Atlantic Canada’s largest regional law firm, and immediately before joining Shannex, he was Senior Counsel at a publicly traded energy and services company.Eric holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Certificate in Human Resource Management from Saint Mary’s University, a Bachelor of Law from the University of New Brunswick, and a Master’s in Law and Finance from the University of Oxford.

When not at work, Eric can be found playing hockey, skiing or enjoying the great outdoors with his wife and their two children. He also loves the Montreal Canadiens.

Meet our Leadership Team

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Melodies and Memories

February 21, 2024
Residents at Parkland West Bedford enjoy musical company from Kindermusik children.

Parkland West Bedford

The Parkland Harmony Wellness Program focuses on the key dimensions of personal well-being: social, intellectual, physical, vocational, spiritual and emotional.

Through a partnership with Joyful Sounds Music Studio and Kindermusik, Parkland West Bedford residents sang along to nostalgic melodies with toddlers and their parents as dance partners. Creating intergenerational activities and relationships is one of the ways the Harmony Wellness Program supports Parkland residents in living their best lives

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Planning your preventative health care schedule in 2024

February 21, 2024

Preventative care can help you stay healthier for longer.

Routine preventative care can help you stay well and can catch problems early, helping you live a longer,healthier life. The following are the most common preventative health screenings for adults:

  • Breast, colorectal, cervical and prostate cancers are some of the most common cancers affecting adults,and early detection can stop them from spreading or becoming more serious.
  • Screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes can help detect common metabolic conditions.
  • Immunizations: We usually think of vaccines as something kids need, but adults need to stay on top of their vaccines. Adult immunizations include annual respiratory illness shots and boosters for vaccines like tetanus or the mumps you may have received as a child that have worn off.
  • Counselling: Preventative counselling can help manage a chronic condition or support making healthier lifestyle choices, like quitting smoking.

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Excelling in Leadership Program

February 21, 2024
Vanessa Quigley, Gillian Hoyt Hallett, Ken Dewar, Allana Labban-Aonso, Ashley Umlah, Chole Henderson, Brianne Bampton, Gavin Slade, Elliot
Kavanagh, Kyle Richardson

Learning and Development

In January 2023, 10 leaders from Shannex began the Excelling in Leadership Program, the highest level of the Lead Blue Leadership Development Program.

Completing Excelling in Leadership strengthens each participant’s ability to work effectively in their presentrole and prepares them to take on increasing responsibility. Students work on projects that address real Shannex challenges and come up with innovative solutions that move the organization – and their careers – forward.

Specifically, Excelling in Leadership will develop high-potential leaders in four areas:

  • Values-based leadership
  • Self-management and self-awareness
  • Strategic, creative and solution-orientated decision making
  • Team and relationship management

In November, the learners completed their course work and received their certificates! Congratulations! A new cohort of students are embarking on this challenge for 2024, and we can’t wait to see the results.

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Dorothy’s Rehabilitation Journey: Triumph at Neill Hall 

February 21, 2024

In the community of Neill Hall, resident Dorothy Mackeracher defied the expectations set by her medical prognosis. With the support or restorative care LPN, Morgan Lambert, Dorothy has the wind back in her step after two hip replacements. 

A nursing home resident since 2020, it was one year into her arrival that she learned she needed her right hip replaced. Following her surgery, Dorothy and Morgan worked together on bed exercises to strengthen Dorothy’s legs and bring a full range of motion to her hips. But, the following year, Dorothy learned she’d needed a left hip replacement and after the surgery Dorothy was told by doctors that her walking again would be an “unrealistic goal.” 

Not one to be limited by other’s expectations of her, Dorothy set her mind to walking again and began a six-month rehabilitation process.  

“After this prognosis, I was angry, and I felt no one would listen to me,” Dorothy shared. “Morgan went through all the exercises with me. She listened to what I wanted and what I had to say. She played an important role in my recovery and gave me courage and hope I needed.” 

Morgan was with Dorothy’s care from the beginning, from occupational therapy visits for Dorothy’s wheelchair seating, to physiotherapy visits for her hips and her shoulders, to and mobility assessments and pre- and post- surgery support. 

 “I applied my nursing skills and restorative care skills a lot throughout her recovery experience,” said Morgan. “My knowledge and help from our close-knit care team guided us greatly in knowing Dorothy’s limitations. Knowing when she had met the benchmarks to move on to a harder skill or exercise. Knowing when to push a little harder, but also knowing when to pause.” 

Dorothy’s rehab progress started with daily bed exercises to achieve range of motion, such as sitting up in bed, and progressing to standing exercises that started to lead to small steps.  

Now, after just six months, Dorothy’s mobility has greatly improved, and she uses a walking aide.  

“Not only is she taking more than a few steps, but she is doing laps of the hallways and showing everyone that if your heart and mind is in it, you can do the unthinkable,” said Morgan. 

Dorothy became a symbol of extraordinary resilience and perseverance for the other residents of Neill Hall, who, inspired by Dorothy, now dare to challenge their own perceived limitations.  

“I saw another resident being walked at lunch and that made me so happy to see another person getting the help I received,” said Dorothy. 

Morgan Lambert and Dorothy MacKeracher 
Jerome Cruz, Morgan Lambert, Dorothy MacKeracher, Vickie Fulton(kneeling) Marjorie Taylor

Nia’s Melody at Parkland on the Glen

February 21, 2024
Nia, daughter of Workforce Coordinator, Kimone White at Parkland on the Glen

Bring Your Kid To Work Day

On “Take Our Kids to Work” Day, Nia White, daughter of Parkland on the Glen’s Workforce Coordinator Kimone White, joined their team of Great People.

Each month, this Parkland community visits the South Common Community Centre. Nia was the surprise guest for the November visit and serenaded the Credit Valley Seniors Group with a rendition of O’ Canada. Her presence bridged generations and created a lasting memory.

Explore Parkland on the Glen

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Green Energy

February 21, 2024

Shannex is approaching the one-year mark of being Canada’s first seniors’ living organization to achieve ISO 50001 certification. The management and maintenance teams have been instrumental in our journey to improve energy efficiency.When team members and residents work together, we can take action that makes a difference in our communities.Energy efficiency tips that you can take while staying warm over the winter:

  • Ensure that windows are closed
  • Turn lights o in empty rooms
  • Use natural light and warmth from the sun during peak hours of the day
  • Close blinds to reduce heat loss through windows in the evenings

Interested in making your community green? Reach out to your General Manager about joining your site’s Green Team!


Learn how Shannex is committed to protecting the environment with an action plan that transforms the way we prioritize sustainability.

Strategic Direction: Environmental Stewardship

Meeting Community Needs

February 21, 2024

Ocean Hall and Gordon Hall

New nursing homes announced for New Brunswick and Nova Scotia

Ocean Hall and Gordon Hall

In November, the New Brunswick and Nova Scotia governments shared that Shannex was the successful proponent of building new nursing homes in both provinces. In New Brunswick, Shannex will build a 60-suite nursing home on the Station Yards development, connecting Ocean and Gordon halls through their innovative Main Street design. This nursing home is currently under construction. 

In Nova Scotia, two new communities of 144-suites each were announced for Halifax, one adjacent to Caritas Residence and the other next to the current nursing home under construction in Bloomsbury. Building and operating these new communities supports both provinces in meeting the need for people who require long term care

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New Communities

February 21, 2024
Memory care residents at The Stratford enjoying their new space and Qi Gong/Tai Chi

Welcome Home!

November 15th, 2023, was an exciting day for 28 memory care residents and their loved ones from Evan Hall at Parkland Clayton Park.

Beginning shortly after breakfast, residents, and Evan Hall team members made the move to their new home in The Stratford at Parkland West Bedford. Thanks to a well-planned and coordinated effort, the move went smoothly, and everyone has settled well into their new home.

The Stratford building at Parkland West Bedford is also home to London Hall, a new 20-suite licensed long term care community. The first residents began arriving on December 8th, 2023. The Evan Hall move made space to create 28 much-needed new provincially licensed long term care suites to support Nova Scotians who require this level of care.

The former Evan Hall has now been renamed McNabs Court, a new neighbourhood that is part of Parkstone Enhanced Care. It welcomed its first residents on December 1st, a warm welcome home to all of our new residents.

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Saving For Retirement

February 21, 2024

It’s never too early to start saving and financially planning for retirement! 

Shannex offers retirement savings programs for all team members who meet the minimum part-time eligibility requirement. Depending on your employee group, this may be a pension or group RRSP. When you enrol in the group RRSP or pension plan and contribute, Shannex also contributes to your account. 

Contributing to an employer pension or retirement savings plan (RSP) has many advantages: 

  • The longer you invest, the more interest it can earn over time. 
  • Contributions are tax-free on your pay cheque; you pay tax when you withdraw the money during retirement. 
  • Group plans typically have lower fees for plan management, meaning more of your money stays in your account.
  • Contributions to a retirement savings or pension plan reduce your taxable income, which may lower your overall taxation rate. 

Shannex also provides Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSA) and Voluntary Retirement Savings Plans (RSP) in addition to its employer-matched programs. Also, contributions to an RRSP are eligible for the Canada Revenue Agency’s First Time Home-Buyer or Life-long Learning Program. For more information, contact the Great Rewards team at GreatRewards@shannex.com.

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Snapshots

February 21, 2024

Sushi and Chopsticks

Executive Chef Darrell Cooling, from Caritas Residence, NS, held a sushi demonstration. Residents tried new foods and learned how to properly use chopsticks.

Birthday Bash!

Residents Ann Roberts and Brenda Phillips from Parkland Clayton Park, NS, celebrated their birthdays together! Ann turned 87 on November 11th and Brenda turned 95 on November 15th.

Work and Learn

Meet the first cohort of students for the Work and Learn Personal Support Worker program in Moncton, NB.

Hometown Hockey

Arborstone Enhanced Care, NS, residents and team members attended a Halifax Mooseheads Hockey game in late November. The excitement of the game kept them warm, along with their new Shannex tuques and mittens.

Care Boxes for our troops

Residents and team members from Parkland Cape Breton, NS, shipped out five care boxes for troops who spent the holidays in Latvia.

Ugly Sweater Day

Team members at Home Office celebrated the holidays with an ugly sweater day in December.


A Nova Scotia Kitchen Party

There is nothing like a true Nova Scotia kitchen party! There were smiles for miles as residents from Parkland Truro, NS, enjoyed live entertainment, fish cakes and dancing.



Sharing Songs and Stories

Lakewood Heights students and residents from Tucker Hall, NB, gathered to share stories and songs.

Spreading Christmas Joy

Debert Court, NS, joined the Debert and Area Community Association Christmas Parade on December 10th. The team’s float won the 2023 Christmas Spirit Award.


A big Yeehaw on Country Western Night

The dance floor was alive with cowboy boots and hats during Country Western Night at Parkland Ajax, ON.

Cruising around Pavillon Richard

Resident Brian Martin enjoying a ride around Pavillon Richard in Moncton, NB.


Spreading Christmas Joy

Debert Court, NS, joined the Debert and Area Community Association Christmas Parade on December 10th. The team’s float won the 2023 Christmas Spirit Award.