Where the Care is a Blessing
Brother Alan Worthington, a 35-year-Mason and personal care resident, is grateful for the services he receives at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill.
Alan, 92, a member of Mitchell Lodge No. 81, Philadelphia, moved to the village almost four years ago, after living for 60 years in a Bensalem home with his late wife, Cynthia. She received care for dementia and other health issues at the village before passing away two years ago.
“My dad visited my mom every day,” their daughter, Judy, said (pictured with Alan below). “He’d get up, get dressed and go right down the hall to see her. He would stay with her until lunch, go back to his room and then go back to see her again later. He was with her as much as he could be. Having them both at Masonic Village was a blessing.”
Alan was born and raised in Huntingdon Valley, PA, and worked for 36 years at The Bell System of telecommunication companies. He also spent two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany for 18 months.
He was a volunteer firefighter for the Feasterville Fire Company, following in his father’s footsteps. He and Cynthia were involved with their church and in bowling leagues. The couple also belonged to the National Camper and Hiker Association of America. Each year, the family attended a weeklong camping adventure and convention in a different state.
“I started out in a tent when I was less than 2 years old,” Judy said of her childhood adventures with her three siblings. “We went to Myrtle Beach every year for two weeks. My dad used all his vacation time for camping. He would get home from work on Friday night, and we’d pack up the car and go.”
When both Alan and Cynthia needed additional care, Alan said he wanted to come to Masonic Village. He became a Mason after learning about it from church friends. Alan sings in the choir, participates in Bible study with another resident and looks forward to frequent visits from his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
“I was very pleased with the care Cynthia got here,” Alan said. “So many of the LPNs spent over a good year sitting with her near the birdcage, her favorite spot. I never had to worry about her. They would keep an eye on her, even if they were not on duty.
“The care I receive is terrific. I don’t think I’d still be alive if I lived someplace else. I don’t have to worry here. I get all my meals, and my bed is made every day. The Masonic organization has been good to me.”
For more information about care and services at the Masonic Village of your choice, visit MasonicVillages.org.
