Thrive hosts storm evacuees
Statewide evacuations brought more than 40 senior citizens to Thrive at Greer last week ahead of Hurricane Florence.
The seniors are residents of Thrive at Prince Creek, which is stationed in Murrells Inlet.
“It’s tough because being displaced from your home is never easy. Now, try and do it at 90-years-old,” Thrive at Greer President Tim Cook said. “Our hearts are definitely with them through this, and also the team members that traveled with them. They also left their homes and family members behind. It was just a sacrifice.”
Cook said the move to evacuate residents from the coast took a lot of planning.
“If you ever have a choice, it’s great to be able to stay in place,” he said. “The tough thing is doing what we did. These residents left early and spent more time away from their home and community. We’ve seen some tears, but when it comes down to it, they’re getting loved on, they’re getting fed and they’re staying safe. That’s what really matters.”
Joining the more than 60 residents in Greer, Thrive’s weekend visitors put the facility at capacity.
“There’s a lot of energy that goes into something like this,” Cook said. “It’s amazing to see so much open hospitality from the residents that live here. I’ve had people offer their couch or their chair to make someone else more comfortable. It gives you a good feeling.”
Cook said staff members were communicating with residents’ families back home throughout the trip.
“There’s a lot of trust there. People have entrusted us with the care of their loved ones, and that’s a big responsibility,” Cook said. “We take that seriously and do what we can to make sure they’re taken care of.
“We’re all wearing the same jersey and have the same goals,” Cook said of his staff. “We just want to care for each elder like they’re family. It’s pretty special to see that happen.”
The Prince Creek residents returned home Tuesday to minimal damage.
“A lot of people are in a whole lot worse situations than we are, so we do feel fortunate,” Cook said.
