TO KNOW him is to love him. Mr. Bradd Holden is a man with a heart of gold who has stolen the hearts of everyone at Elk River Health and Nursing Center in Winchester. This warm and welcoming community has found a gem in Holden, whose contributions extend far beyond bringing smiles to his fellow residents’ faces.
It all started when Emily Horton, the activities director at Elk River, noticed Holden’s creativity in action one day.
“He asked for some cardboard and immediately began cutting out three-dimensional flowers and various shapes,” she shared.
Holden’s journey into the world of art was sparked by a personal desire to regain his mobility. On that quest, individuals such as Horton and Jean Clark, the dedicated activities assistant, played pivotal roles in guiding him toward his artistic aspirations.
As a remarkably talented artist, Clark conducted one-on-one art sessions with Holden, contributing significantly to his progress. Horton’s support and influence also proved invaluable in helping Holden on his artistic journey.
“I had been in bed for about a year, and I decided I was going to start walking again,” he recalled.
“When I started doing this, they got me interested in art. I started doing cardboard art, which is just cardboard and paper. And then, all of a sudden, we had little sales outside the place where people come in and look at your artwork.”
Holden’s art quickly blossomed, with a special focus on sports-related pieces, particularly his favorite team, the Tennessee Vols.
“I’ve done college symbols for Tennessee, Alabama, and Auburn,” he explained.
He also loves creating custom artwork, like the beautiful honey bee mural he created for the business office.
Although art had always been a small part of Holden’s life, it wasn’t until he joined Elk River that he truly discovered his passion.
“This is something that popped up in my head, and I just wanted to do this,” he explained.
With determination and creativity, he adorned the halls and rooms with incredible 3D art pieces, adding a touch of beauty to the center’s atmosphere.
The community took notice of Holden’s exceptional talent during the annual art festival at Elk River. His artwork received much-deserved admiration, leading to requests for custom pieces from other staff members. Through his art, Holden has found a new passion and a way to bring joy to those around him.
Emily Horton shared how Holden’s late-night art sessions reflected his dedication to his newfound passion: “In the beginning, he would stay up until one o’clock in the morning, just working on all kinds of pieces.”
Holden’s inspiration comes from various sources, including YouTube videos that spark his imagination and lead to beautiful creations like flowers made from coffee filters.
Once you stumble upon one of Holden’s pieces, you can’t help but be captivated and crave to see more. But beyond his artistic endeavors, Holden has found peace and inspiration through meditation.
“When you meditate, it just naturally comes,” he shared. This practice has not only brought him calmness but has also become the motivation for his creative ideas.
Holden’s transformation since joining Elk River has been remarkable. The caregivers now describe him as “thriving,” a stark contrast to the reserved person they first met. His dedication to art and activities has inspired other residents to join, creating a stronger sense of community.
Not only does Holden create art, but he also serves as a supportive companion to his fellow residents. From being a Bingo partner to assisting with art activities, he helps others thrive and brings a sense of camaraderie to the community.
Horton said, “He helps me with art when we have an art activity. So he’s very much involved with the other residents to try to help them thrive.”
As he looks to the future, Holden plans to continue decorating the center’s flower bed with his decorative rocks, bringing even more warmth and homey charm to Elk River. With each stroke of his brush and every creative endeavor, Mr. Bradd Holden exemplifies the heart and soul of this beloved Southern community.
Holden is just one of many residents who has experienced such love and encouragement to explore new things. The center has held music performances, shows, and other activities to keep the residents flourishing as much as possible.
As a cherished resident of Elk River, Holden is just one glowing example of how love and encouragement have inspired the residents to explore new passions. The center has become a hub of creativity and joy, hosting music performances, captivating shows, and a plethora of engaging activities that keep the spirits of its residents soaring.
With each event and opportunity, Elk River ensures that its beloved community flourishes and continues to thrive, making it a true haven of warmth and happiness for all who call it home. GN
