Latest news with #RSCC
The Citizen
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Tennis fever hits Ron Smith Care Centre
Residents and staff at Rand Aid's Ron Smith Care Centre (RSCC) traded their everyday gear for Wimbledon whites. On July 11, the recreation centre was transformed into a scene straight out of the All England Club. Staying true to the Wimbledon tradition, each person received a numbered queuing ticket, just like the ones used to line up for tickets at the real event. These numbers were later entered into a lucky draw, and Josephine Kew and Beryl O'Donnell were delighted to win prizes. ALSO READ: Experienced social worker Ulricka Beukman steps up at Ron Smith Care Centre Residents also learned about Rufus the Hawk, the official pigeon deterrent of Wimbledon, and enjoyed a short video showing him soaring through the stadium each morning to keep the courts bird-free. The morning sparked fond memories and conversations about past Wimbledon matches and legendary tennis players. To top it off, everyone savoured the classic Wimbledon treat: strawberries and cream, while watching iconic moments from past tournaments on the big screen. But the fun didn't end there as residents and staff returned in the afternoon to watch the men's semi-final match between Carlos Alcaraz and Taylor Fritz. The viewing was made even sweeter by delicious shortbread biscuits generously gifted by Pam and Gerald Mills and their daughter, Tracy.
The Citizen
14-07-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Ron Smith Care Centre appoints new nursing manager
Following the passing of much-loved nursing services manager Avril Maltman in April, the Ron Smith Care Centre (RSCC) has announced the appointment of Leanie Bessinger to the role. With a wealth of experience and a passion for geriatric care, Leanie steps into the position with deep respect for the legacy she inherits. A registered professional nurse with nearly three decades in the healthcare field, Leanie brings a rich blend of clinical expertise and compassionate leadership to the post. ALSO READ: Ron Smith Care Centre pampers residents She first joined the Rand Aid Association in 2014 as the charge nurse for Riverlodge 1, RSCC's recuperative care wing, where she quickly distinguished herself through her calm competence and dedication to person-centred care. 'In 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Avril took me under her wing and taught me everything about nursing management,' Leanie reflected. 'She helped shape who I am as a leader. To now carry her legacy forward is both a privilege and a responsibility I hold close to my heart.' Leanie's immediate priorities as nursing services manager include strengthening person-centred care practices, supporting and mentoring the nursing team, and maintaining high clinical standards. She also aims to bolster communication between staff, residents, and families to ensure consistent, transparent, and trust-based care. ALSO READ: Ron Smith Care Centre resident celebrates 102nd birthday 'My focus is on quality – both in care and in relationships,' she said. 'Continuous staff training and open communication will be central to enhancing the well-being of every resident.' Since joining the Ron Smith Care Centre, Leanie has witnessed several transformative developments, most notably the adoption of the Eden Alternative, a care philosophy that seeks to eliminate the loneliness, helplessness, and boredom often associated with institutional care. 'The Eden Alternative has shifted our culture entirely,' she said. 'It's created a space where residents feel truly seen and valued. That change has had a profound impact on me as a nurse and as a leader.' ALSO READ: Elphin Lodge and Ron Smith Care Centre offers warmth to the needy Before her time at Rand Aid, Leanie held positions at Medicross, NHC Healthcare, and in private general practice. From 2011 to 2014, she served as deputy nursing manager at Sandringham Gardens, where her passion for elder care began to flourish. In her personal life, Leanie is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys camping, fishing, and spending quality time with her family and pets. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Ron Smith residents enjoy laughter, games and sweet surprises
Easter at Ron Smith Care Centre was filled with laughter, fun, creativity, and chocolate Easter eggs. The celebrations were in full swing when the residents participated in an Easter egg game. Residents and staff were adorned with flowery Easter bonnets. Each resident had the chance to roll the large, colourful dice to find out what prize they would win. ALSO READ: Ron Smith Care Centre pampers residents The number thrown on the dice directed them to a card, which indicated where they could search for their prize. The halls of RSCC were filled with laughter and singing as residents walked around in search of their prizes. Chocolate eggs were devoured throughout the care centre as each resident received a bag filled with chocolates. The bags themselves were handmade by the residents a week before the festivities. ALSO READ: Ron Smith Care Centre resident celebrates 102nd birthday Six lucky residents each won a special, large chocolate Easter bunny. They were Esme Joubert, Ursula Heggenberger, Stella Granville, Amy Wright, Maria Longley and Brian Russell. 'Residents used a variety of pastel-coloured icing to decorate biscuits for Easter in the shape of eggs, carrots and bunnies,' said Simoné Botha, the care centre's occupational therapist. 'These biscuits were enjoyed throughout the festivities during activities at the recreation centre,' she said. The festivities ended with residents being transported back in time with Irving Berlin's Easter Parade movie. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
