The Way We Lead / March 5, 2026
ResCare Community Living Foster Care Provider Thomas Thompson has been Working Smart and Doing Good in Lincoln, NE.
In June 2024, the client in his care became critically ill. Unable to walk and in extreme pain, it was first assumed to be a rheumatoid arthritis flare-up. EMS was called, but the client refused to leave in the ambulance. He would only agree to go if Thomas took him, so Thomas drove him to the hospital himself. What followed was a long and difficult ordeal. The client’s health declined rapidly, requiring weeks on a ventilator. Throughout this time, Thomas was a constant presence at the hospital, spending countless hours by his bedside, speaking to him in the hope he might hear and draw strength.
When the ventilator was finally removed, new challenges arose as the client refused to eat, communicate, or participate in basic care. Doctors recommended transfer to a rehabilitation facility, but Thomas would not give up. He rearranged his life to be at the hospital every day, advocating with doctors, nurses, and therapists, while encouraging the client to push through. He brought in the client’s favorite meals and comic books of Marvel superheroes to motivate him. Thanks to Thomas’s unwavering dedication, compassion, and advocacy, the client regained strength, engaged in rehabilitation, and was able to return home.
Thomas, You are an example of compassion and dedication. By supporting your client with dignity and encouragement throughout a difficult situation, you provided consistent motivation so they could continue to live their best life.
WORK SMART. DO GOOD.
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