Discover Connected Care Close to Home - Colleen Loessler’s Care Coordination Story

At 90 years old, Colleen Loessler is a lifelong Sanilac County resident with deep roots in the community she calls home. Born and raised in Deckerville and later settling in Sandusky, Colleen has relied on local healthcare throughout every stage of life. Today, she continues to value having trusted care close to home.

For Colleen, staying local for healthcare isn’t just convenient, it’s essential. “It’s close to home and I don’t have to travel out of town,” she shared. “When you get to my age, you don’t want to travel 50 miles for care… Having local healthcare is important.”

In recent years, Colleen has also found added support through McKenzie’s Community Care Coordination program. Working with Community Care Coordinator Teresa, she’s been able to navigate appointments, transportation, and day-to-day healthcare needs with greater ease.

“She mainly listens to me,” Colleen said. “Every time I call her and ask about something, she does whatever it is I need.” From helping arrange rides to out-of-area appointments to making sure her care stays on track, the program has made a meaningful difference. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be getting the help I need,” Colleen added. “She’s helped me with things I couldn’t take care of myself.”

Beyond the practical support, Colleen says the relationship itself brings peace of mind. “I feel like if I needed someone to talk to, I could call her. I would call Teresa,” she said. “She has a way of just talking to you.”

When Colleen arrives for appointments at McKenzie, she feels welcomed and comfortable. Familiar faces and friendly staff make each visit easier. “It just feels like that’s where I want to go and I’m always welcome there,” she shared. “It’s comfortable because I know the faces and they know me.”

For Colleen, Community Care Coordination is more than a helpful service, it’s a reminder that healthcare can still feel personal. With support from McKenzie and a team that truly listens, she’s able to continue receiving the care she needs in the community she has called home for a lifetime.