McMahon-Tomlinson Miracle Game

Softball game at Miracle Field featuring McMahon-Tomlinson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a home run.

On Friday at Elmer Thomas Park, McMahon-Tomlinson put on a softball game for its residents. This is the first time the McMahon center has held this game for the residents, but they plan to hold more games in the future.

The McMahon-Tomlinson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center focuses on skilled nursing, long-term care, and rehabilitation for its residents. McMahon-Tomlinson Activities Director Tina Crider says the facility has a lot of activities for their residents such as going to the ballet, the Philharmonic Orchestra and book clubs. One of the residents was a participant in the Dream Flight in May for six war veterans.

“Anything they’re interested in, we load up and go,” said Crider.

A softball game was a new idea for McMahon-Tomlinson, and it came with Miracle League Field in mind. Miracle League Field is a wheelchair-accessible baseball field in Elmer Thomas Park. Crider said she asked some residents at McMahon-Tomlinson their thoughts on it and the responses were positive, so they made it happen.

Residents at McMahon-Tomlinson enjoyed the day at the ballpark.

“I’m excited to hit the ball, that’s what I was best at when I played,” Jim Reynolds said before the game started.

Jo Nation said her favorite part of the day was being outside enjoying the weather. “It’s a beautiful day. I’m happy to enjoy the sunshine.”

It takes work to accomplish an activity like this and Crider gave her praises to the staff at McMahon-Tomlinson that made the game possible.

“It takes a team, and we have an awesome one filled with nurses, specialists and therapists,” said Crider.

Crider said that they look to use the field more in the future, mentioning the idea of another game in the fall with players from other local groups. Even if the game in the fall doesn’t happen, there are plans for another softball game around the same time next year.