“Flower girls” spread joy to nursing home residents

Published 11:13 am Wednesday, July 6, 2016

By BECKY CRISSMAN

becky.crissman@cordeledispatch.com

CORDELE — Oftentimes it is the simplest of gestures that can mean the most. These gestures that are often overlooked by so many can make the biggest impact in the lives of the people they touch.

Three local ladies who have become affectionately known as “The Flower Girls,” devote one day each week to bringing a little joy into the lives of others.

Becky Crissman/Cordele Dispatch Campbell and Perlis fill vases with fresh flowers to take to the residents at Crisp Regional Nursing and Rehab. The trio make the trip to the nursing home every Thursday.

Becky Crissman/Cordele Dispatch
Campbell and Perlis fill vases with fresh flowers to take to the residents at Crisp Regional Nursing and Rehab. The trio make the trip to the nursing home every Thursday.

For the past 10 years Jackie Perlis has been taking flowers to the residents of Crisp Regional Nursing and Rehab. Perlis’ friend Linda Campbell began helping three years ago. Two years ago another friend, Clair Miller joined in to complete the trio.

“It is something we love to do,” said Perlis. “The flowers are donated by Joe Ward of JW Designs. Each week we pick up the vases, refill them and take them back to the residents.”
The ladies purchase their own vases and accept small vases and have had some vases donated as well.

Perlis said the residents get so excited to see the flowers each week and that is how they got the nickname “The Flower Girls.”

Perlis said she got her start when she visited a lady in the nursing facility that had worked for her for 50 years. She had taken her some flowers and noticed how excited other residents became seeing the flowers.

“When I left that day I decided the next time I came I would have enough flowers for everyone,” said Perlis. “We take as many as we can. We strive for 70 but sometimes only have 40 or so.”

Perlis said they make up for it by also taking candy to the residents and says they love Reeses Peanut Butter Cups and Peppermint Patties.

“Most residents know us by now,” said Campbell. “Some are even looking out their window when we pull up.”

“We enjoy bringing a smile to faces of the residents,” said Miller. “We look forward to this as much as they do each week.”