By KIM NANCE
Kosciusko Home Care & Hospice, Inc.

Larry Bowers and his wife Annie moved to Warsaw from Michigan to be closer to family two years ago. Bowers served in the Army as a medic in the 45^th medical battalion in Germany over 50 years ago. He has fond memories of sleeping in a tent by the Berlin wall during his deployment. Bowers had served in the Army for 22 months when he contracted Tuberculosis, and then spent the next 22 months in the hospital.

After the Army, Bowers went to work for General Motors. He retired after 30 years and then worked at Walmart as a greeter until his health problems started to slow him down. His weekly dialysis treatments and other health issues made it difficult for his wife to provide for his care so he contacted Veterans Affairs for assistance. Veterans Affairs made a referral to Kosciusko Home Care and Hospice for nursing and homemaker services.

Claire Elliott, home care nurse visits Bowers one day a week to set up his medicines and check his vital signs. She has taken the time to color code his medication and even prepares it for him when he travels. Over the past 2 years, Claire has worked closely with Bower’s doctors to regulate his medication and improve his quality of life. “I contribute my living longer to my nurse Claire and my wife Annie. I could not ask for a better nurse and she doesn’t mind my teasing,” said Bowers. Vicky Erb, Home Care Homemaker assists with cleaning, cooking and errands. Kosciusko Home Care helps Veterans to remain in their own homes and provides respite support for their caregivers.

Bowers and Annie celebrate each day together after 51 years of marriage. They have had to endure some extremely difficult times with the loss of their three children, but they are thankful for their time with their five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. “Our neighbors, Claire, and people in our new community really stood beside us when our daughter died earlier this year,” shared Annie. “Claire brought me flowers on Mother’s Day because she knew that would be a hard day for me,” said Annie.

For more information about Home Health Care services contact Kosciusko Home Care and Hospice at (574) 372-3401.