Ruth Sisson

Ruth Sisson knows a thing or two about caring for people. Her career as a teacher and Guidance Counselor in Hillsville gave her plenty of practice offering a helping hand when she saw that one was needed. Last year, after a mild stroke and a fall, she found that she was the one who needed some help. Ruth realized that she couldn’t continue to care for her husband, Sebert, and herself in their home. With the help of their two daughters, the Sissons found two rooms side by side at Wheatland Hills in their hometown, and moved in a matter of three days.

“We’re so fortunate to be here,” said Ruth. “When you are no longer able to care for yourself, this is the place to be.”

She is thankful for many things – the planned activities that let her remain physically and intellectually active, the monthly Family Night meal and entertainment event, and the good food. Mostly, she values the staff at Wheatland Hills.

“The nicest surprise was how professional, caring and loving the personnel are to every resident,” said Ruth.

“We are spoiled rotten. To sit back and be waited on takes some getting used to,” she said.

Not that Ruth does a lot of sitting. She takes part in community events, the regular exercise classes at Wheatland Hills, attends Bible Study and joins the “Hops to Local Shops” trips to stores in the area. She looks forward to the wide array of entertainment that Wheatland Hills staff conjures up on a regular basis. Young singing groups, local musicians and even the staff themselves bring culture and talent to the residents constantly.

“It’s like being at home, except someone waits on you,” said Ruth. She knows the quality of the care at Wheatland Hills is valuable – and not only to she and her husband of 64 years. That exceptional care provides precious peace of mind to their daughters, who live several hours away.

Ruth considers herself fortunate to be among friends and neighbors, enjoying planned activities and everyday companionship in the Hillsville community. She’s hard-pressed to pinpoint anything she doesn’t like about Wheatland Hills.

“My only complaint is they feed us too well,” Ruth jokes.