Woodworth honored for life’s work

    AUGUSTA — Maine First Lady Ann LePage recently joined the Maine Health Care Association (MHCA) in the Hall of Flags at the Statehouse to honor the accomplishments of 33 people living in the state’s long-term care facilities, including Dwight Woodworth of the Hibbard Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dover-Foxcroft.

Photo courtesy of Maine Health Care Association
    REMEMBER ME HONOR — Dwight Woodworth of Dover-Foxcroft recently received the Maine Health Care Association’s lifetime achievement award from Maine First Lady Ann LePage.

    This was the 12th annual celebration of the photography exhibit, titled “Remember ME” which features the black and white photographs and biographies of  citizens living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities statewide. Residents ranging in age from 65-98, were decorated war heroes, mothers and fathers, and community leaders such as nurses, teachers, pilots and small business owners. 
    Born with Cerebral Palsy, Woodworth was honored for his accomplishments as a disability rights activist and fundraiser. He is currently writing a book about vocational rehabilitation.
    The primary purpose of the Remember ME project is to salute the people who have spent the best years of their lives supporting their families, building their communities and serving their state and country. The project also urges the public, including lawmakers, to remember the selfless contributions of the elderly and disabled citizens who now depend on others for their care and safety.  
    According to MHCA Vice President and Communications Director Nadine Grosso, “Just because these residents are less visible in the community doesn’t mean that we should forget their important contributions to our state and country. After giving to others all of their lives, they now depend on us for their daily medical and social care and we take that responsibility very seriously. This photographic tribute and recognition ceremony is our way of remembering them and saying thank you.”
    Since its inception, the Remember ME program has recognized 433 long-term care residents statewide. The MHCA is a nonprofit trade association, representing over 250 providers of long term care services to the state’s elderly and disabled citizens.