Dear Effingham Care and Rehabilitation Center Nursing Team,

This week, we join the nation in celebrating National Skilled Nursing Care Week — a
cherished annual observance that recognizes the extraordinary role skilled nursing care
centers play in caring for our elders and individuals with disabilities. Every person
within the long-term and post-acute care community contributes to improving the
quality of life for all residents by creating a true home away from home — one that
fosters the essential connections people need not just to survive, but to truly thrive.

This year’s theme, “Moments in Bloom,” captures something I believe you live out
every single day. It reflects how everyday acts of compassion, connection, and teamwork
grow into meaningful experiences — for residents, for their families, and for each of you.
It is a celebration of the truth that both big and small moments, when nurtured with
care and intentionality, can flourish into something beautiful: a life lived fully, with
dignity and purpose. Each smile exchanged in the hallway, each hand held during a
difficult moment, each therapy milestone celebrated — these are your “moments in
bloom.”

Your dedication has not gone unnoticed. I am incredibly proud to share that because of
your tireless commitment to excellence, Effingham Care and Rehabilitation Center has
earned three remarkable distinctions this year:

✧ CMS Five-Star Rating — the highest quality rating awarded by the Centers
for Medicare & Medicaid Services, recognizing our outstanding performance in
staffing, quality measures, and health inspections.
✧ Silver Quality Award from the American Health Care Association and
National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) — a testament to our
organization’s sustained commitment to continuous quality improvement.
✧ America’s Best Nursing Homes for 2026 by Newsweek — national
recognition placing Effingham Care and Rehabilitation Center among the very
best long-term care facilities in the United States.

These honors are a direct reflection of you — your skill, your heart, and your unwavering
commitment to the residents and families in your care. No award committee hands out
accolades to buildings; they recognize people. And the people of this nursing team are
second to none.

As we celebrate National Skilled Nursing Care Week, please know that your work is
seen, valued, and deeply appreciated. You make moments bloom every day. Thank you
for the extraordinary gift of care you give to our residents and to this community.

With deep gratitude and admiration,

Dr. Fran Witt, DNP, MA, LNHA, RN
Chief Executive Officer
Effingham Health System