02/06/2026
On Friday, staff at the Brian Center of Fincastle attended the Salem Ridge Yaks baseball game. The Ridge Yaks were hosting ALS Night, which raises funds for ALS research.
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis aka Lou Gehrig's Disease) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Our facility cares for several residents with this awful disease and they rely on us for their full care.
Carmen Shifflett is one of these patients. She has been an inspiration to all who have had the opportunity to care for her. Due to the progression of the disease, she communicates only by using her eyes to operate a specialized computer system. Despite such limitations, she is filled with selflessness and joy. Carmen told Shelby Houston, our Director of Rehab, that she was put in this awful situation because God wanted her to be a listener and to be there for others. This attitude has had an amazing impact on different staff members here. When it comes to the work being done, people realize that it is a privilege, not a burden, to be able to do the work that they do. It increases the "attitude of gratitude."
Our facility came together and took Carmen to this baseball game. We could not have done it without the support of Kissito Healthcare, Advanced Senior Care, and Larry H. Miller Senior Health. Though many attended, special thanks need to go to Amy Hicks (a CNA who helped get Carmen prepared for the trip), Jensen Beckner (a respiratory therapist who accompanied Carmen to, from, and at the game), Shelby Houston (spearheaded the entire effort, and Tyler Woolwine (maintenance director, who always helps with Carmen's technology issues and drove her to and from the game). Carmen was communicating using her computer throughout, stating what an amazing time she was having. It was a night filled with laughter and memories we will cherish forever.
Last but not least, Jasmine Price, one of our great LPNs, had the play of the night! Late in the game, a foul ball came into the stands towards Carmen. Jensen covered Carmen as Jasmine put her softball skills to work and caught the ball, giving it to Carmen. Getting a foul ball and ending with fireworks were the perfect pairing to end the night!
