I hope that if you are reading this, you or your loved ones never need to live in a nursing home. I hope you are never forced to make that agonizing decision for your mom or dad, or find yourself in a hospital bed waiting for a skilled nursing bed to open up while the world feels like it is closing in.

But for many, that day comes. As someone who has dedicated 26 years of my life to working at Heritage, I feel compelled to address the disheartening negativity and public criticism directed at our staff and management following the news of the Heritage Village closure in Gerry.

It is easy to criticize from behind a keyboard. However, until you have experienced the care that must be provided to a loved one who no longer recognizes you, who can no longer feed themselves, or who needs help with the most basic dignity of a shower, you cannot truly understand the weight our team carries.

We are facing a national staffing crisis that can no longer be ignored. It isn’t a lack of heart or leadership; it is a lack of hands. The staff who have stayed have done so because they love these residents with their whole hearts. They are the ones who provide comfort when the world becomes confusing and frightening for our seniors.

Heritage Village has served Chautauqua County families for generations, and its residents are now facing the life-altering stress of relocating to a new home. They do not need community vitriol; they need grace. They need us to respect the people who have been their lifeline for years.

In this moment, you get to be part of the problem or part of the solution. I urge our community to choose wisely. Let’s honor the legacy of care in Gerry by choosing compassion over criticism.

Melissa Thies is a Portland resident.