Life Care Centers of America
02/10/2020
Josh Haislip, director of rehab

The name Emanual is derived from the Hebrew word Immanuel, which means “God is with us” (Matthew 1:23).

Many around the world just recently celebrated Christmas and know the wonderful birth story of Jesus and the fulfillment of prophecy from Isaiah 7:14, “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

Emanual Kennedy has lived at Life Care Center of Hixson, Tennessee, for nine years. He is a fairly independent resident who has volunteered over the years with a number of activities, such as delivering newspapers or raising/lowering umbrellas in the courtyard. He greatly enjoys socializing with residents, family members and associates while serving in these roles.

Recently, Emanual has volunteered to serve as “rehab greeter” in the rehabilitation department and has enjoyed the purpose he receives from this role. Life Care Center of Hixson has a large outpatient program, and there is a lot of traffic in and out of the rehab gym each day as community patients receive their planned outpatient service.

Emanual greets every patient with a smile and helps them with the door, if necessary. He is always prompt and consistent with his time as he chooses to be involved as “rehab greeter.”

You will likely find him in the gym from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., unless he is on his “lunch break.” The patients and therapists have really enjoyed Emanual and his presence.

“God is with us” – this short phrase is a wonderful and profound reminder! Emanual Kennedy, is a source of light and reminder for so many as he finds purpose helping in serving others!

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