| During National Home Care Month in November, Bridgeport Home Health Care invites legislators to visit a patient and caregiver to see first hand what a difference home health care makes in people's lives. On December 2, 2010, Florida State Representative Kathleen Passidomo (76th District) met with Naples resident Mr. Coyest Simmons, Jr., who receives nursing care at home from Bridgeport Home Health Care through the Medicare program. Also present at the visit were Mr. Simmons' wife, Geraldine Simmons; Michelle Bock, Bridgeport Home Health Care Licensed Practical Nurse; and Kevin Comerer, Director of District Affairs. Mr. Simmons is 68 years old and has diabetes. A bunion on his foot became infected two months ago and he required hospitalization. After discharge, Mr. Simmons began receiving Medicare skilled nursing visits several times a week to care for the wound. Mr. Simmons told Representative Passidomo, "Home health care means everything to me. I could have lost my foot if Bridgeport Home Health Care didn't come out and take care of me. Michelle came out to help me with my foot but also taught me about diabetes too. The first thing the nurse does when she comes here is check my blood sugar. Michelle told me how important the levels are and helped me with what to eat and how to manage it better. I went to the doctor last week and he said my levels are fifty percent better. I want everyone to know how much Medicare and Bridgeport Home Health Care means to me." |
 Left to Right: Michelle Bock, Bridgeport Home Health Care Licensed Practical Nurse; Mrs.Geraldine Simmons; Mr. Coyest Simmons; Representative Kathleen Passidomo; Kevin Comerer, Director of District Affairs |