The Morton Team

Nov 29, 2012

Dear Oscar McCullough, Arthur Anderson, Jerome Johnson, Charles Lloyd, and Jeremiah Weah,

I have a confession, when SPIN took over the services that had been previously provided by another organization in 2009, Harold Murray was one of the three people I was most concerned and worried about. His services had not been benefitting him and he was in a downward spiral in his overall health, behavior and quality of life. A new life had to be put together for Harold and those of us involved at the time knew what it would take to get started; namely the right people who would come together as a team to put Harold first and to take the time to learn who Harold is and how to best support him. Harold had an amazing “back story” and the team would have to understand that story and respect the whole person that Harold was, is and wanted to be.

Not only did this team respect Harold’s story, they all took an active role in discovering it. Arthur, Jerome, Oscar, and Jeremiah were dedicated in researching and putting together the pieces of Harold’s life history for his BioTime Line in 2010. It was exciting for this team when they found documentation on Harold’s past and were able to piece together his rich history.

Since Harold Murray moved to 6123 Morton Street three years ago his life has infinitely changed for the better and thanks to all of you, his journey to a better life continues.  When Harold first moved to Morton, his behavioral support needs were such that Harold required two staff with him at all times. Today, because you have stayed focused on who Harold is and what supports will truly benefit him, staffing support has been cut in half. Brian Edwards, who nominated you has said, “The Morton team works together daily with passion, dedication, and great communication to ensure Harold has the best life possible. Some days are not always easy supporting Harold, but Team Morton stays focused on Harold’s goals with patience, devotion and respect.”  Brian goes further to assert that, “I could not ask for a better team to support Harold Murray.  Each person brings something unique to the table and a strength that is needed for Harold to thrive at home and in the community.” 

Arthur Anderson brings patience to Harold’s life. Arthur patiently supports Harold to get dressed in the mornings at his own pace.  Some days this can take hours, but Arthur is always patient and focused allowing Harold to have a person-first start to his day.

Oscar McCullough brings calmness to Harold’s life.  If Harold is beginning to demonstrate stress by not coming out of his bedroom or the bathroom, Oscar always handles the situation calmly. After talking to Harold and giving him his space, Harold eventually comes out of his bedroom or his bathroom a lot calmer. 

Jerome Johnson brings maturity to Harold’s life.  When Harold perseverates by manipulating certain objects, Jerome is able to communicate to Harold in a direct adult to adult way that Harold is able to understand and appreciate.  Jerome is able to get Harold to understand his actions and to conduct himself more maturely.

Jeremiah Weah brings respect to Harold’s life.  When Harold wants to be left alone, Jeremiah respects Harold’s personal space and privacy, while ensuring his health and safety needs are met.  Jeremiah respects that Harold is a grown man and his home, personal space, and privacy are important to him. 

Charles Lloyd brings understanding to Harold’s life.  Charles is the newest member to the Morton team, but he has brought an expertise that ensures Harold’s health and well-being during the overnight shift.  When Harold, who is not a morning person, needs to get up early in the morning for an appointment, Charles supports Harold with enough thoughtfulness that it makes the transition much easier for Harold.

The Morton team personifies the deep partnership, professionalism and people-first focus that leads to the successful outcomes for the people SPIN supports, in this case, Harold Murray. Harold is no longer on the top three of my worry list thanks to these incredible people who pull together in every way and have changed Harold’s life for the better. It is absolutely my pleasure and privilege to name Oscar McCullough, Arthur Anderson, Jerome Johnson, Charles Lloyd, and Jeremiah Weah, AKA the Morton Team as the July to September 2012 Team of the Quarter and on behalf of Harold, the SPIN Management Team and the SPIN Corporate Board to congratulate and thank you for your performance excellence.

My Warmest Regards,

Kathleen Brown McHale
President & CEO