A Coat of Clear Polish, A World of Difference

Layla H, Campaign Chair Leader of Bay Port High School, reflects on one GlamourGals visit that inspired her want to make a difference.

One story that stands out to me is about an initially quiet and introverted resident, who blossomed into the resident always cracking jokes and who many volunteers learned to know and love. The first time she came to GlamourGals, she looked a little nervous about being there and sat at a table by herself. I chose to sit by her and get to know her. She was new to the facility and scared to come because she didn’t know many people yet and didn’t really like having her nails done. However, I assured her that we still loved to have her there, and that I could just put a coat of clear nail polish on. She loved the idea and later that year told me that she loved that she could still feel a part of what we do even though she didn’t want her nails done.

Although she is no longer at the facility, I will always remember her because it taught me how powerful and important one connection or even conversation can be. Although my time in this GlamourGals chapter is almost up, it has had a lasting impact on my life and truly inspired me. It was what originally inspired me to get my CNA license and work in a nursing home! So now, even after I graduate, I can work to help solve the ongoing problem of resident loneliness and isolation.