34 years ago, Venesia Calhoun found herself on an unexpected journey that would change not only her life but the lives of many others.
At 26, Venesia was given a 30 to 40% chance of living by doctors after suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This left Venesia temporarily paralyzed and with dementia caused by TBIs and a lack of oxygen to the brain.
It was a life-altering experience that forced her to navigate a path of recovery and rediscovery.
With two young children to care for, Venesia embarked on a journey of physical and personal rehabilitation.
Her determination and commitment to her family kept her moving forward. With the help of her loving husband, Gerald, who supported, encouraged, prayed, and did everything in his power to see her through such a difficult time. Throughout her healing process, she realized that her purpose was not only to regain her abilities but to provide support and care to those who had been overlooked by society - the elderly living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
As Venesia regained her strength, she also witnessed her grandparents battling their health issues. Venesia will never forget the pain she felt from the doctor's dismissiveness at an appointment for her elderly grandfather’s progressed cancer diagnosis. During this visit, the doctor remarked, "Why did she even bring him here? We can't do anything for him." The doctor's words echo in Venesia's mind to this day and have a lasting impact. She recognized the lack of empathy and understanding that often surrounds the elderly, especially those dealing with cognitive impairments. This realization fueled her passion to make a difference and provide a space of comfort and support for those who are often marginalized.
During the same time, her grandmother began to exhibit symptoms of early-stage Alzheimers. The progression of this disease began to impact the family structure as Venesia and her aunt took on the role of caregivers. The role of caregiver gave Venesia the experience of the other side of the pendulum and it became full circle for her.
Thus, the idea of Comfort Creek was born.
Comfort Creek was birthed out of Venesia’s vision of an adult daycare facility that went beyond traditional models. She wanted a place where individuals living with Alzheimer's and dementia could find not just care, but companionship, dignity, and purpose. Given Venesia's personal health experiences with dementia and the frustration of her grandfather being marginalized due to his age, she was determined to change the perception of care and aging.
As Comfort Creek takes shape, Venesia is pouring her heart and soul into every detail. Venesia explains, “Comfort Creek is not a facility. It will be a place of engagement and enrichment.” The vision for Comfort Creek is to be a sanctuary for those seeking connection, purpose, and care. Comfort Creek will be a canvas for creativity and a stage for the individual narratives that have been tucked away by memory loss. It not only provides relief for families who need respite but also contributes to research efforts and raising awareness about the unique needs of individuals living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
Venesia will carefully select staff members who share her vision. These individuals are not simply caregivers but companions, advocates, and friends.
Venesia’s journey from trauma to triumph, her unwavering belief in the worth and potential of every person, and her unselfish dedication to creating a better world for older adults fill a crucial gap in the Thomasville, Georgia community.
Through her entrepreneurial spirit and unshakeable resilience, Venesia turned her own experience into a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, one person's determination can spark a movement of compassion and change.