Meet Don Woods, the marketing director at Prairie Meadows Alzheimer’s Special Care Center (prairiemeadowsseniorliving.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – Prairie Meadows is a team of professionals that specializes in memory care. We are a homelike and freestanding memory care facility that offers restaurant-style dining, onsite nursing 24/7, courtyards and resident-led-and-inspired programming.
How did you get started in the business? – I am compassionate about senior care for several reasons. For starters, aging adults and the aging process is something that I feel very passionate about. Personally, it is my belief that quality care through one’s journey is what is valuable. When I was younger, I had the privilege of assisting direct family members such as my grandmother and great aunt with hands on care. The personal care that I provided are top reasons why I continue the journey of providing outstanding care.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The regulations for each care community in regards to prices for care.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – With years of experience, I have been honored to serve seniors.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have one brother, three nephews, one niece and my father, whom lives near me. My mother influenced my healthcare career in ways unspeakable. She herself was an amazing caregiver to residents with disabilities. Watching her interactions as a young child influenced my decision to continue caring for gaining adults.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I love to make TikToks and listen to music on my day off.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I traveled to Mexico, across the United States, traveled to India, Taiwan, Malaysia and Spain when I was younger.
Who inspires you? – Leaders who are able to balance homelife.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Do what you do so well that others will come back to see you do it again.” – Walt Disney
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Positive.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – The Friends theme song.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Guest speaker.
Which talent would you most like to have? – Ability to sing on key.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Real Estate sales.
What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection and maximizing quality care and support. I am very passionate about supporting their cause and mission.
What is your favorite movie? – Sing and Sing 2.
What is your favorite TV show? – Parks and Recreation.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Carrie Underwood.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 391-2790; marketing@prairiemeadowsseniorliving.com.