To the editor:

Placing a loved one in a nursing home is a very difficult decision. It is a painful realization that one cannot provide adequately for the needs of one for whom one cares so deeply.

I am writing because of the positive experience that our family had at a Lawrence nursing facility. My mother spent 2 1/2 years in their nursing care unit. She received the love and care that we could not provide her. They also became a second family to me as I visited her regularly and they gave me support as we approached her loss.

I cannot adequately express my appreciation for each and every one who participated in her care, who lovingly made her last years as positive as possible. Her mind was not what it once was, but her smile was intact largely due to the love and care she received.

Thank you, each and every one who made our last 2 1/2 years joyful.

Nancy Bonner,

Lawrence