Wednesday, September 4, 2002

Flowers brighten up Southland

When Rona Fong heard fellow Rotarian Mary Chapman tell the group that 17 residents at Southland Nursing Home didn't have anyone to visit them, she didn't say anything, she just decided to quietly take it upon herself to take them under her wing.

As the owner of a thriving flower shop, Rona's Flowers and Gifts, in Peachtree City, she knew how an arrangement of flowers could bring a smile. She combined her business and her outgoing and caring personality and is now giving 17 residents at the Home something to look forward to.

Once every week or two, she drops by after work with specially made baskets of flowers for the residents. She gives much more than a bit of her time or a beautiful bunch of flowers; she spreads cheer throughout Southland as she goes door-to-door with her delivery.

One of her favorite ladies has recently had a serious setback and is unable to see. Rona takes a vase of roses, making sure Anna gets to feel the vase and softness of the petals. She talks with her and encourages her.

On another stop, she listens patiently as a woman shares her past. At another bedside she picks up a fork and helps her friends who's having difficulty eating. Another woman is coaxed into finally giving her a smile and saying the flowers are beautiful after a long, patient talk. Rona is overjoyed with her success and beams as she travels to the next room.

Rona is one of many Rotarians, and Fayette County residents, who quietly do what they can to bring a little joy into the world of those who are less fortunate. She is quick to say that she is the one who benefits, that it revives her and makes her feel "so good" to visit.

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