Residents Of Sparta NHC Enjoy A Parade Of Encouragement

NHC Sparta residents gathered outside Friday to wave hello and blow kisses to their friends and family they miss so much. Around 50 cars made up Sparta’s NHC Encouragment Parade. All decorated with thoughtful messages and colorful balloons. Ready to drive by to uplift their loved ones’ spirits.

Recreation Director at NHC Sparta Nicki Basham said the residents have talked about the parade almost nonstop. This would be the first time some residents have seen their families’ faces in person for over two months.

“They are super excited,” Basham said. “We have made balloons today. They have balloons on their wheelchairs We have made all kind of signs for them to hold for the family members to say, ‘I love you,” and, “I miss you.'” It is just really great and warms my heart.”

Local resident Joni Trivette participated in the parade to see her Granny, Mollie Clark. Their convoy included Clark’s daughter, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Trivette said they miss seeing their Granny at family occasions and hearing her coined phrase.”If the wheels are turning, I am a going.”

“My Granny Mollie has baby sat in this county for years,” Trivette said. “I am sure there is a lot in this line that is going to light up her day that she has helped raised. It is just a little something that we get to give back to all of them who have helped raised us and shaped us as people.”

More than just family members joined in the parade Friday. Amanda Looper with Buckeye Home Medical Equipment said she regularly assists with activities for the residents. But since the coronavirus, she has not been able to spend time with the people of NHC Sparta. Looper said she hopes the parade brings a smile to the residents.

“As a former social worker in a facility myself, I think it is a struggle day to day, without a pandemic going on, to bring cheer and joy to people’s lives,” Looper said. “Anything we can do, even if it is a few seconds, to bring some happiness in their lives that is what we are here to do.”

Brent Young with the Cookeville Jaycees said he lined up in the parade to see his neighbor and also, support the community of Sparta. He worked on decorating his Jeep with streamers, balloons and signs his since the morning of the parade.

“It is always good to see smiling faces,” Young said. “Even if it is from a distance, at least you get the human interaction.”