Jamaica
Claudette Angus’ presence is a balm on a wound; a hearth in the winter; the rainbow after the rain.
Starting her career with MSC as a caregiver, then working her way into a physical therapy role and, now, Jerusalem’s rehab coordinator, Claudette has offered a helping hand to the most vulnerable in a myriad of loving ways.
Claudette’s memory of MSC stretches back over 25 years. At that time, not a lot of information was available about cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, and other conditions that affect the children and adults who live in our care. First hand, Claudette participated in the transformation of physical therapy as a field—in knowledge and expertise, she brought our level of care to new heights.
The availability and implementation of caregiving education at MSC, Claudette cites, has helped the residents live longer, more healthy lives.
One way caregivers at MSC stay on the forefront of their field is through our mission volunteer program.
Select universities in the United States provide opportunities for nursing and therapy students to gain hours of practical application in their studies by traveling to MSC locations; on the trip, students provide healthcare to the residents and run workshops to update caregivers on strategies for therapy techniques, feeding positions, and other medical best practices.
Today, I can look at the residents and know that they are alive because of our work.
Claudette
In addition to improved physical therapy practices, Claudette sees transformation in care for residents with ADHD. The addition of Jerusalem’s sensory room, where individuals can find stimulating activities that alert and organize the nervous system, has made a substantial difference in helping residents regulate their bodies.
In her day-to-day life, Claudette finds that sensory input is vital as its own form of care for everybody. A hug, in particular, is a favorite tool in Claudette’s toolbox for nurturing and healing. “A hug is a loving sensory input that is powerful, and everyone needs it. It brings joy to your heart,” she shares. “Many of these children have never known a hug… I can change that for them.”
MSC’s Catholic spirituality inspires Claudette, particularly our community’s way of always putting love first. She recalls how the community helped her through a difficult time in her life: when her son passed away tragically, coming to spend time with the residents at MSC reminded her heart that love can never die. Working in a space that empowers rather than criticizes, learns instead of hiding, and grows even when things are difficult inspires her to come back day after day, for nearly three decades.
Claudette Angus embodies the remarkable progress MSC has made in providing exceptional care to our residents. Her dedication and expertise have not only elevated our understanding of conditions like cerebral palsy and ADHD but also transformed the daily lives of those in our care. From the introduction of sensory rooms to the life-changing impact of improved physical therapy, our advancements reflect a commitment to change, compassion, and education for the most vulnerable. Claudette’s journey reminds us that growth is possible even in the face of challenges, and through love and perseverance, we can create a brighter future for all who call MSC home.
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