'To the editor:

Considering all the bad press nursing homes often receive, I would like to share my heartfelt appreciation for Twinbrooke South on North McColl Road in McAllen.

In 1991, when my Aunt Lora Bonneau had reached the time when she could no longer care for a home and manage her daily needs, a very thoughtful neighbor suggested Twinbrooke South, where her husband was being well cared for after suffering a stroke. I thank God everyday for that recommendation. I have found Twinbrooke to be the best of any long-term health care facility I have encountered in the Valley or in my area.

Lora passed away this month at age 101, after more than 8 years of loving care from all levels of the Twinbrooke health team. I knew I could count on the staff to advise me promptly if there were any changes in her health and to keep me informed of her doctor's reports and proposed treatments - extra comforting to me because I lived three hours away.

Never did I arrive, whether to visit unexpectedly or to celebrate a scheduled birthday party or to take her to a doctor's appointment, that I didn't find her immaculately dressed, sitting in her wheelchair amid a sparkling clean room filled with cheerful sunlight, or being lovingly and patiently fed (especially the last two years), or comfortably tucked in bed.

I thank all those wonderful people at Twinbrooke South, some of whom I can call by name, plus those who served in the background to keep Lora comfortable and well-cared for all those many long nights. Also, a big thank you to all the wonderful people of the First Baptist Church who helped her with her needs while she was still able to live at home, then visited her regularly at Twinbrooke and brought the enjoyable church youth choir to celebrate many birthdays and Christmases.'