Maine Health Care Association

Maine Health Care Association Established in 1954, MHCA is a statewide non-profit trade association representing long-term care

Governed by a Board of Directors, MHCA is the largest advocacy organization for facility-based long term care providers in Maine. Our membership includes nursing homes and assisted living/residential care facilities (also known as PNMIs). Members provide a range of long term care services that may include skilled nursing, rehabilitation or post-acute care, hospice, adult day care and independent l

iving services. MHCA membership also includes 200 associate members, or companies, that provide valuable products and services to long term care providers. MHCA is the state affiliate of the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living based in Washington, DC. MHCA is committed to advancing the quality of services, image, professional development and financial stability of its members. Our education and advocacy on long-term care issues are at the heart of our service to our members and those who work or reside in a long-term care facility.

Priscilla Lightcap, Kennebec Assisted Living & Respite, Farmingdale Priscilla A. Lightcap’s life is a masterclass in cur...
06/13/2026

Priscilla Lightcap, Kennebec Assisted Living & Respite, Farmingdale

Priscilla A. Lightcap’s life is a masterclass in curiosity, courage, and service—lived boldly and generously, with humor never far behind. What a woman indeed. If Priscilla Lightcap is part of your day, it is a great day.

Originally from Florida, Priscilla’s brilliance was evident early. She entered college at seventeen, an academic journey that took her to Hobart and William Smith Colleges and onward to Cornell University, where she crossed paths with legendary scientists Dian Fossey and Jane Goodall—an early signal of her deep connection to the natural world.

Although her dream was to become a veterinarian, life took a meaningful detour. Encouraged by her husband, Ken, Priscilla became a teacher, shaping young minds in sixth grade, junior high, high school, and eventually at the community college level. Her impact was profound. Students at Nassau Community College on Long Island recognized her excellence by naming her Teacher of the Year.

At thirty-seven, when many might hesitate to begin anew, Priscilla followed her heart. She applied to Cornell, was accepted into veterinary school, and fulfilled the dream she had never let go. While raising three daughters, she built a veterinary career in Connecticut where she practiced until the age of seventy-five. She treated everything from tarantulas and snakes to monkeys and birds, employed and mentored veterinary professionals, and offered extensive pro bono care to organizations such as Guiding Eyes and the ATF. She also served on the board for addiction and recovery services and volunteered at local animal shelters.

Even after a fractured pelvis led her to move to Kennebec Assisted Living & Respite, Priscilla’s spirit remained indomitable. Staff and residents alike are energized by her vivacious humor and warmth. Her interests—friendship, reading, nutrition, and cross-country skiing—reflect a life still fully engaged. Priscilla Lightcap has never stopped learning, giving, or delighting those around her.

Photography by Dianne Chicoine, West Gardiner

Judy LaMarr, Seal Rock Healthcare at Atlantic Heights, S**o Judy LaMarr, born in 1941 in Ohio, devoted her life to fait...
06/12/2026

Judy LaMarr, Seal Rock Healthcare at Atlantic Heights, S**o

Judy LaMarr, born in 1941 in Ohio, devoted her life to faith-based service and compassionate leadership. In 1960, she moved to New York City to enter training with The Salvation Army, beginning a lifelong commitment to serving others. Judy faithfully served as an officer (minister) for 50 years, retiring in 2011. She and her husband of 57 years spent the majority of their ministry in New York City, reaching some of the most vulnerable members of society.

Judy consistently embodied compassion, humility, and unconditional love. During the late 1980s and 1990s, she was appointed chaplain for all Salvation Army shelters throughout New York City. As she walked the streets, individuals experiencing homelessness often greeted her by name as she distributed socks, blankets, and comfort. At a time when fear and misinformation surrounded the AIDS crisis, Judy regularly visited the AIDS ward on Roosevelt Island, offering dignity, care, and human connection to those suffering.

Believing deeply in holistic and restorative care, Judy organized and led weeklong retreats at the Salvation Army Star Lake Camp in New Jersey for men, women, and families living in shelters. She thoughtfully planned and led these retreats for over a decade, providing rest, hope, and renewal to countless individuals. While raising three children and maintaining her full-time ministry, Judy returned to school and became a Licensed Practical Nurse in the late 1980s, providing basic healthcare to marginalized individuals.

On September 11, 2001, Judy and her husband were serving as divisional leaders for The Salvation Army of Greater New York. Within hours of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Judy was at Ground Zero alongside first responders, offering coffee, prayer, and comfort. She continued to serve there for the next eight months. Those who worked with Judy describe her as the truest example of servant leadership. No task was ever beneath her, and she was always ready to listen, serve, and offer compassion. Judy is a hero of faith to many, including her three children, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

Richard Judkins, Montello Manor, Lewiston Richard "Gary" Judkins has devoted his life to service, integrity, and commun...
06/11/2026

Richard Judkins, Montello Manor, Lewiston

Richard "Gary" Judkins has devoted his life to service, integrity, and community. Born on September 19, 1940, in Augusta, Maine, to Viola and Steven Judkins of Belgrade, he grew up as the youngest of four children learning early the value of hard work, responsibility, and compassion that would define his life’s path.

Gary’s commitment to service began with the United States Army, where he served honorably from 1963 to 1966 as a heavy equipment operator stationed in Germany. During this time, he and his wife, Donna Jean Boston—whom he married on May 8, 1965—welcomed their first child. After returning home, Gary and Donna settled in Gardiner, Maine, purchasing their first home in 1968 and later welcoming two daughters. Their home became a place of warmth, resourcefulness, and constant activity, thanks in part to Gary’s remarkable ability to fix anything—from cars and radios to lawn mowers, televisions, and bicycles. A self taught mechanic and lifelong nature and animal lover, he approached every challenge with patience and ingenuity.

In 1968, Gary began what would become a distinguished 28 year career with the Augusta Police Department. Rising to the rank of lieutenant, he earned a reputation for calm leadership, fairness, and unwavering dedication to public safety. His courage was evident during critical moments, including the 1976 Central Maine Power bombing incident, where he was among the first responders protecting the community during a time of fear and uncertainty. His service left a lasting impact on the department and the city he proudly served. Beyond his professional life, Gary contributed to his community through his involvement with the Masonic Lodge, embracing its principles of brotherhood, charity, and moral integrity. After retiring in 1999, he and Donna moved to Kissimmee, Florida, where he continued to embody resilience and strength. Across every chapter of his journey—soldier, police lieutenant, husband, father, mentor, and friend—Gary Judkins has exemplified a lifetime of service.

Photography by Dianne Chicoine, West Gardiner

MHCA is proud to celebrate CNA Week this June 11-17! Certified Nurse Aides are often the first to notice a resident's sm...
06/11/2026

MHCA is proud to celebrate CNA Week this June 11-17! Certified Nurse Aides are often the first to notice a resident's smile, offer a reassuring hand, or provide comfort. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment to quality care makes a difference every day in the lives of our residents. We pause to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you for your tremendous care and compassion! You mean the world to residents, families, and your co-workers! Thank you!

Shirley Jones, Alzheimer Care Center, Gardiner At age 86, Shirley Jones is an unparalleled pioneer of girl’s athletics....
06/10/2026

Shirley Jones, Alzheimer Care Center, Gardiner

At age 86, Shirley Jones is an unparalleled pioneer of girl’s athletics. A long time coach, physical education educator, and athletic leader, Shirley has been recognized by many groups for her lasting contributions, including the Maine Principal’s Association as an Unsung Heroine.

In the early 1970s, during the early days of Title IX, Shirley was earning her bachelor’s degree in physical education and sciences from University of Maine Orono. Shirley was a prominent leader establishing girls’ athletic programs in softball, intramural swimming, field hockey, basketball, track and field, and cross-country. Over a career that spans nearly four decades, she instilled a spirit of competition and motivated athletes to strive to be their best.

As coach at Falmouth and Portland high schools, Shirley helped the Falmouth girls win the state class B Track and Field championship in 1974, the field hockey team win its second triple C class B division championship and later, Portland high school girls’ cross-country team achieve an unprecedented 7 to 1 victory. Shirley served as chairperson for the State Division of Girls and Women Sports, president of the York County Retired Teachers organization, and longtime member of the Girls’ Sports Committee for the State Principal’s Association. Maine Parks and Recreation Association honored Shirley for her distinguished service.

Former students fondly remember her spirited guidance on staying safe and looking out for one another. Her practical advice—be aware of your surroundings, make good choices, stay in groups, and support your friends—became words many carried into adulthood. Now in the later years of her life, Shirley resides at the Alzheimer’s Care Center in Gardiner, Maine, where she brightens exercise class with her encouragement and continues to share her hard‑earned wisdom with a warm, familiar sparkle in her eye.

Photography by Dianne Chicoine, West Gardiner

Maine is in the house! Very successful day on the hill advocating for long term care policies! 🇺🇸
06/09/2026

Maine is in the house! Very successful day on the hill advocating for long term care policies! 🇺🇸

Willys Johnson, Maine Veterans' Homes, South Paris Willys Johnson was born on November 10, 1938, in Norwalk, Connecticu...
06/09/2026

Willys Johnson, Maine Veterans' Homes, South Paris

Willys Johnson was born on November 10, 1938, in Norwalk, Connecticut, and raised in New Canaan. He remembers roaming the woods and swimming in the Five Mile River with neighborhood friends, often playing “war games” inspired by the times. Those early experiences, along with the military service of family members, helped shape his strong sense of duty and curiosity about the world.

After graduating high school, Willys entered the United States Army in 1956. He trained as a military policeman and, after receiving a secret clearance, was assigned as a courier in Korea. With his own driver and a quarter-ton truck, he transported classified documents between ASCOM, Seoul, and United Nations offices. While stationed there, Willys worked alongside a reporter from the Detroit Free Press, who mentored him and sparked a passion for journalism and storytelling.

When he returned home in 1959, Willys got a job at The Norwalk Hour, beginning a career that would take him around the world. He later joined the Associated Press, covering the Maine Legislature in Augusta before assignments in Boston and New York. His adventurous spirit led him to Australia, where he became Chief Night Editor for the Australian Broadcasting Commission. In 1969, Willys was assigned to the Associated Press bureau in Saigon, where he spent nearly two years covering the Vietnam War at its height. After returning home, he married his sweetheart, Chris, and together they settled in Maine. The letters they exchanged while Willys was abroad remain his most cherished possessions.

In addition to his journalism career, Willys is a published author. He wrote The Girl Who Would Be Russian: And Other Stories and The Year of the Longley, reflecting his gift for storytelling and understanding of people, history, and politics. A soldier, journalist, author, world traveler, and devoted husband, Willys Johnson’s life reflects courage, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to truth and service.

Photography by Sarah Labonte, Westbrook

Maine is well represented on Capitol Hill today! We are waiting to meet with Senator King and Senator Collins.
06/09/2026

Maine is well represented on Capitol Hill today! We are waiting to meet with Senator King and Senator Collins.

Stephen Hughes, Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation, Augusta Born on July 26, 1943, Stephen Hughes continues to...
06/08/2026

Stephen Hughes, Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation, Augusta

Born on July 26, 1943, Stephen Hughes continues to live a life defined by service, leadership, and commitment to community in Maine and beyond. Born and raised in Maine, Stephen spent most of his early years in Auburn, growing up alongside his older brother and developing a lifelong connection to the state he would later serve in meaningful ways.

Stephen’s academic journey began at Duke University, where he studied before being drafted into the United States Army, serving for nearly two years in the Vietnam era, shaping his desire for civic responsibility and service to community. Upon returning to Maine, Stephen resumed his education at the University of Maine Orono, quickly emerging as a respected student leader. Active in student government, he became the first student ever selected by the governor of Maine to serve on the University of Maine Board of Trustees in 1969. During this time, he was also involved in campus discussions around racial justice, corresponding with alumni about significant social issues and events.

Following graduation, Stephen served several terms as a Maine State Representative. He sponsored measures reflecting his interest in environmental responsibility and careful stewardship of Maine’s landscape. Through his years in public service, Stephen built lasting relationships within Maine’s political community, including longstanding friendship with Governor Janet Mills, former Attorney General Jim Tierney and fellow public servant Charlie Jacobs. Later, Stephen relocated to New York City, pursuing a calling in ministry and becoming deeply involved first with the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, and then with the Church of St. Bartholomew. He ran a youth ministry program and devoted more than 25 years at St. Bart's. His dedication was honored as he was received into the Order of St. Bartholomew’s in 2019, awarded to members for outstanding service to the church. A lifelong lover of music, Stephen participated in glee clubs and choirs from youth through adulthood and sang in the church choir for many years.

Photography by Dianne Chicoine, West Gardiner

Rosemary Hede, Maine Veterans' Homes, Caribou Rosemary Spix Hede will celebrate her 101st birthday this year, and her st...
06/07/2026

Rosemary Hede, Maine Veterans' Homes, Caribou

Rosemary Spix Hede will celebrate her 101st birthday this year, and her story reflects more than a century of kindness, generosity, and quiet leadership.

Rosemary proudly supported World War II, living and working on a military base where she performed transcription work, contributing in important ways to the operations supporting our nation’s service members. Her husband served in the United States Navy, and Rosemary has been a devoted member of the American Legion Auxiliary for many years.

Education and learning are central to Rosemary’s life. She could read before she started school and was known for her exceptional abilities from a young age. Later in life, Rosemary learned how to create Braille books for the blind, focusing especially on math books that were desperately needed, spending countless hours producing these materials so others could have access to education and independence. Rosemary also volunteered weekly at the Adult Multiple Alternative Center in Caribou, reading to adults who were unable to read on their own. Rosemary also played a significant role in preserving local history. She helped compile historical summaries for New Sweden and Stockholm, Maine, was one of the first members of the Stockholm Historical Society, assisted in establishing the museum, and typed the entire book on Stockholm’s history. She also helped organize and support the annual Midsommar celebration in New Sweden for many years.

Family and community were always priorities. She was active in the PTA throughout her children’s school years and sang in her church choir for 50 years. In the early 2000s, she made more than 100 bonnets for newborns at Cary Medical Center so every baby could go home wrapped in love. Today, Rosemary remains active at MVH-Caribou, nurtures her faith by going to church with friends. Rosemary’s life is a powerful example of service, compassion, and devotion to others.

Photography by Monty Rand Photography, Bangor

Address

317 State St
Augusta, ME
04330

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+12076231146

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