HOULTON, Maine — After 45 years in the nursing field, Wendy Lynds is calling it a career. Lynds has spent the better part of four decades working at Gardiner Health Care Facility.
“When most people hear Gardiner Health Care Facility, formally Agnes Gardiner Nursing Home, their minds typically tend to wander to the little lady dressed in white who so swiftly glides through the hallways,” said Alyssa Austin, director of social services. “She’s often thought of and referred to as ‘the glue’ and although Wendy doesn’t wear her white cap anymore, her presence as a nurse is easy to pick out of a crowd.”
Gardiner Health Care Facility is a traditional long-term retirement nursing home and assisted living center located in Houlton. The center provides skilled nursing services such as physical, occupational and speech therapy.
Following the completion of her schooling in Massachusetts to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, Lynds began her career at Agnes Gardiner Nursing Home in October of 1973 as a charge nurse working the night shift.
Through the years she transitioned into many roles, working various shifts, most recently as the unit coordinator.
“Wendy has experienced and embraced many areas of change over time at Gardiner, however, her main focus remained about her residents and ensuring their highest quality of life, maximum comfort and safety,” Austin said. “Wendy’s calming presence and demeanor has made her the go to guru for all things nursing and beyond. She was often sought out by her co-workers, residents and families for advice, recommendations or just friendly conversation.”
Austin added that although Lynds will be sorely missed at Gardiner, they know she’ll remain busy visiting with and caring for her family, tending to her garden and working around the house.
