Physical Therapy Assistant at Life Care Center of Elizabethton Baptized by Resident

Life Care Center of Elizabethton has no shortage of special moments between its associates and residents. Connection forms the very fabric of their care.

But recently, one associate showed just how strong patient-caregiver bonds can be, and how those bonds can heal, strengthen, and uplift––mind, body, and soul.

Bottney Wilson is a Physical Therapy Assistant at Life Care Center of Elizabethton. She began her career in healthcare at the age of 18, working nine years as a rehab tech before becoming a PTA.

She loves being a therapy associate, helping patients heal and become their strongest, best selves. And she says that all her residents are like family to her.

So, when she felt the calling to affirm her commitment to Christianity, she decided to look to the place and the people she loved for inspiration and guidance.

One resident had already made a deep impression on Bottney during her time working at the facility, in her words, exemplifying “love and Christianity” and being a “good example of Christ’s love.” This resident also knew a lot about baptism and its importance to those on the Christian path. Bottney decided to go to him to learn more.

The resident, along with his wife, was excited for Bottney and eager to help her along her journey.

“It was something I always wanted to do,” Bottney said. “They were very knowledgeable on the subject and offered to perform my baptism!”

Bottney immediately accepted the resident’s offer to perform her baptism.

Of course, she could have arranged to be baptized anywhere, but she wanted to share the special moment with her friends, family, coworkers, and residents, and to make the ceremony as convenient as possible for the resident and his wife.

So, Bottney decided to be baptized right at the facility for all her loved ones to experience.

For the ceremony, they filled a large trough with water so that the resident, who requires a wheelchair, could perform the baptism safely. The resident’s wife and attending staff stood by to assist.

Everyone gathered around Bottney on the patio to share and celebrate her special moment.

After the resident and his wife performed Bottney’s baptism, they sang her a baptismal song.

“I feel that God was present on this occasion,” Bottney said. “I spend so much time with the people in this building, the staff and residents. It was nice to share this special occasion with them. I hope it inspires others.”