Residents of Regency House in Portage la Prairie are celebrating the long-awaited replacement of a malfunctioning therapeutic tub, a fixture that had caused frustration for nearly two decades.
Years of frustration with unreliable tub
Bev Temszen, an 18-year resident of Regency House, describes the ongoing issues with the old tub.
"It broke down every three weeks at a time, and that happened a lot over 18 years," says Temszen.
The tub, used by residents with mobility restrictions who had doctor’s notes, frequently leaked or had non-functioning components. Temszen recalls going months without a working hair-washing hose.
Jean Citulsky, another resident, acknowledges attempts to repair the aging fixture.
"They did try to fix it a couple of times, but it didn’t work. It still leaked," notes Citulsky.
Community effort secures replacement
Portage la Prairie MLA Jeff Bereza credits collaboration with the Portage District General Hospital Foundation for the solution.
"The best part of my job is being able to meet with different groups in the constituency," says Bereza. "When Regency House mentioned the tub’s condition, I contacted Tara [Pettinger], and the foundation stepped up."
Tara Pettinger, executive director of the foundation, confirms the $35,000 purchase aligns with their expanded focus on community healthcare enhancements.
"We’re so excited to do this—it’s going to have a massive impact on their lives," adds Pettinger.
Residents express gratitude
For Temszen, the replacement ends years of uncertainty.
"After 18 years, the fact that I’m going to have a bath and not worry it won’t work tomorrow is due to you," she says to Tara Pettinger.
With the order now approved, residents await delivery dates, marking a tangible improvement in daily life at the facility.
