April 2025

Providing compassionate and skilled home health care

to the people of Mount Desert Island,

Trenton, and Lamoine.

A Note From Our Executive Director

Dear Supporters, Community Members, and Friends,

As I write this, the sun is finally shining here on MDI! Despite a chilly and rainy spring, we have had a busy few months. Our small but mighty team of 14 has been working hard to serve patients across MDI, Trenton, Lamoine and have even made several trips out to Swans Island.

Earlier this month, we held our 3rd annual Chowdah Fest and Silent Auction at The Neighborhood House. What an amazing night! Thank you to everyone who made this great community event possible. If you missed it this year, don’t worry because we will be back next year!

We are all acutely aware of the healthcare landscape in our area feeling even more unsteady these days. I want to assure you that MDNA is committed to being here for you and your loved ones if ever you need our home care services, as we have been for the past 76 years. We also have a robust loan closet available at no cost to you - including wheelchairs, walkers, canes, hospital beds, lift recliners, and other mobility aids for you to use as long as you need.

It is that time of year for our spring appeal, and we are so grateful to you, our supporters, for helping us serve all those who need care in their most vulnerable moments. We are moved by Marcy’s story in our appeal letter and are honored to have been a part of her health care journey.

As we look forward to more sunny days ahead, I simply want to thank you all for your support in whatever shape that takes. It is because of you that we are able to remain a pillar of care in our community.

Thank you and be well!

Warmly,

Amy McVety, Executive Director

3rd Annual Chowdah Fest A Success!

Thank you to our sponsors, the restaurants who provided delicious chowder, the artists who donated beautiful art works, our three judges, and all who came out to sample chowder and enjoy live music

on a foggy night! We can't wait for next year.

Read More Here

MANY THANKS TO MDNA - A FAMILY TESTIMONIAL

"Thanks to the spectacular care from the nurses, physical therapists, and other caregivers at the Mount Desert Nursing Association, my mother was able to stay in her beloved home for years longer than she would have otherwise. Her team provided support and recommendations that kept her independent, but most important they became friends and allies at a vulnerable time. After she moved to Birch Bay, Mount Desert Nursing Association continued services to keep her strong and were an important source of advice and connection. We will be forever grateful to Katie Verville, Nurse Pam, and the entire staff who treated our loved one with such genuine care and compassion. Mount Desert Nursing Association is a world class service with an intimate, community approach to caregiving."

—Carolyn Cooke, Bar Harbor

April is Occupational Therapy Month

by Katie Verville, Clinical Manager

This month, we’re celebrating two exceptional occupational therapists who are redefining what it means to provide compassionate, patient-centered care in the home health setting. Their dedication, creativity, and commitment to improving lives truly exemplify the heart of occupational therapy.

With 30 years of experience as an Occupational Therapist, Jim Cotroneo OTR/L has become a trusted name in our community among patients and healthcare providers alike. Jim is known for his compassionate approach and creative therapy interventions. Jim specializes in working with older adults recovering from strokes and orthopedic surgeries, as well as patients who have a diagnosis of Parkinson's, MS, traumatic brain injuries - to name a few. He’s a strong advocate for aging in place and tailors every home visit to empower his patients to regain their independence safely. His patients often praise his calm demeanor, problem-solving skills, and ability to build strong rapport with even the most hesitant patients. Whether he’s modifying a home to prevent falls or guiding a patient through a bathing and grooming routine, Jim’s dedication is evident in every visit.

Kyla Baxter OTR/L graduated with her Masters in Occupational Therapy in 2023, and is currently attending an OT Doctoral program. Kyla is celebrating her one-year anniversary with MDNA! Kyla brings energy, empathy, and innovation to every home she visits. Kyla is particularly skilled at helping her patients navigate their daily routines. She often creates personalized, easy-to-understand guides and visual aids for her patients and their families. Kyla embraces teamwork by collaborating closely with PTs, nurses, and caregivers to create sustainable care plans. Kyla’s patients and colleagues say her energy and positivity are contagious and she is the kind of therapist who sees the whole person not just their diagnosis. This exceptional quality often leads her to be a trusted anchor for both her patients and their caregivers.

"When both my shoulders became arthritic and my knee started failing me, I had to learn to rely on others. Thankfully, Mount Desert Nursing Association was there to help. Recovery takes more than just time. It takes a community. Thank you for being part of mine."

- Marcy M.

Our Spring Appeal is live! Keep an eye on your mailbox for Marcy's story. Every dollar goes toward providing direct health services to patients on MDI, Trenton, and Lamoine.

Together, we are building a healthier future for all.

Donate Today