It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Stede Bonnet Monument in Southport, NC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Southport, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“My family’s experience has been wonderful with Always Best Care. They are an exceptional team”
“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office”
“Wonderful company!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was exactly what our family needed during a challenging time”
“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of”
“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”
“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things”
“I had a great experience”
“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”
“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I”
“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”
“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”
“Great training”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and”
“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me”
“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had”
“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in”
“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with.”
“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed,”
“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”
“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We”
“I contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many”
“Watching your parents age is an emotional experience. My mother has suffered from emphysema since”
“My family’s experience has been wonderful with Always Best Care. They are an exceptional team of caregivers who really care about the well fare of their clients. They go above and beyond taking care of my parents and have been very professional and dependable. I would recommend ABC to anyone who needs a reliable and competent care team. Karen Lussi”
“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart to see the services being rendered to clients. Extra miles taken to make sure every client is well taken care, even in unpleasant weather conditions. The CEO and administrators were out in the snow last week picking up workers who were unsure of driving . I was glad to see this commitment, making sure families could sit back and relax. With no fear, I will recommend Always best to any family who needs awesome care for their love ones.”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office staff are great people, very helpful and always treat everyone with love and respect. Definitively it is a bless to work for this agency.”
“Wonderful company!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was exactly what our family needed during a challenging time with our father. It all began with a fall, followed by an ER visit, and soon after, my sister and I found ourselves flying to NC to care for him and plan the next steps. Kathryn from Always Best Care was an absolute lifesaver! She guided us seamlessly through the process of finding the perfect independent senior living community for our father. Her extensive industry knowledge helped us navigate the additional health services he required with ease. Kathryn went above and beyond, consistently checking in and patiently responding to countless texts and emails from us. Thanks to her support, our father is now thriving in a supportive environment and is healthier than ever. We can’t imagine how we would have managed this journey without Kathryn’s expertise and compassion. Truly an incredible experience!”
“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of what someone living with dementia is like. This is such a horrible disease but this helps care givers understand the disease. Thanks so much!!”
“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”
“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things . I didn’t know it was that bad for them and it’s very sad , I will always treat them all with care and love no matter what because there dealing with something that’s really hard to deal with .”
“I had a great experience”
“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”
“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I now know what to do differently when working with my residents. I think A all caregivers should experience this training.”
“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”
“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”
“Great training”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and caring home health assistance to my mother who was recovering from an unexpected surgery. They were able to assist on incredibly short notice and made a difficult situation for our family much better. Each of their carers was exceptionally professional and attentive, especially Lori and Kylie who were incredible. I felt safe leaving my loved one in their care and appreciated that they went above and beyond to meet our needs. They provided regular updates to me and my family and made my mother feel so well attended, especially as she needed extra mobility and personal care help. I would absolutely not work with any other company, should we ever need home health assistance again. Highly recommend.”
“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me gain my mobility! They are all super nice and very helpful! Give them your trust, they have mine. If I ever need home help, it'll be through them!”
“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had to downsize due to an unexpected illness and Always Best Care (ABC) stepped in to make this possible. Kind, compassion, pleasant, friendly, joyful and talented professionals comprise those providing this service. I literally couldn’t have lived for at my assisted living since I had so many hospital visits each week. I didn’t want to go alone to these appointments and this freed my family from needless distress and worry about my wellbeing when they couldn’t be there. I highly recommend ABC since they are an essential component providing excellent and reliable support.”
“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in law transition into her new home after moving to Raleigh from Winston Salem. She has dialysis 3x a week and they have worked so hard to coordinate a schedule to make sure everything runs smoothly. Sherry continues to amaze me in how she is able to help figure out schedules and provide customer services in a kind and professional manner. We will continue to look to this wonderful service provider as her needs change and feel blessed to have them on site at Atri”
“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with. He was sincerely concerned about my mom and our family. He is an excellent listener and introduced me to Paige who is equally wonderful. Together they found a great place for my mother in a very short time. Paige was always available to speak on the phone and addressed my questions or concerns. I would recommend using this service for your loved one. Laura B of Raleigh”
“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed, and things changed constantly. My dad has a chance to live the rest of his life with dignity and my mom has a chance to live a fuller life because of the help we got from Kathryn and this team. They have a great network and valuable knowledge but what observed that makes them invaluable is that they care...and when you are on this situation I found that this is the quality that matters the most. Cannot thank them enough.”
“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”
“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We are very satisfied with his service and professionalism. He took his time and our requirements and found the perfect place. Highly recommend him and Always Best Care!”
“I contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many options it was confusing for me! Shawn and his team sent me several places to review and then accompanied me to visit independent living facilities. I appreciate the resources and information provided. Shawn, thank you for being focused on our family's needs and sharing your expertise. Your compassion and patience is so very appreciated!”
“Watching your parents age is an emotional experience. My mother has suffered from emphysema since the early 2000s and was diagnosed with dementia in 2018. We've worked with many companies to provide care for her and companionship. Since 2020, as my mother has significantly declined, we've had to make the decision to move her into a facility. For the past three years, Always Best, and more specifically Nancy Newcomer, has provided consistent and quality care for our family. Nancy is always on time, caring, and reliable. We've experienced companies with high turnover and feel blessed to have had Nancy's support for three years. She doesn’t do this solely for a paycheck but also checks on my dad on her days off and genuinely cares. I'd highly recommend this company to help care for your aging loved ones.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Kingsley Street Park in Southport, NC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Mr. P's Bistro or visit Fort Johnston-Southport Museum & Visitors' Center, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Southport, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Southport, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Southport, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
For 47 years, the Southport-Oak Island community has kicked off the fall season in a big way with the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament.It began in 1979, making it the second-oldest competitive king mackerel fishing tournament in North Carolina. Today, it is the largest king mackerel tournament on the East Coast.According to the tournament fact sheet, the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce estimates the economic impact of the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament is “well over $2 million,” as it draws boats...
For 47 years, the Southport-Oak Island community has kicked off the fall season in a big way with the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament.
It began in 1979, making it the second-oldest competitive king mackerel fishing tournament in North Carolina. Today, it is the largest king mackerel tournament on the East Coast.
According to the tournament fact sheet, the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce estimates the economic impact of the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament is “well over $2 million,” as it draws boats from across the U.S. The 2024 tournament drew from New York to Kansas. Closer to home, boats came from 151 cities in North Carolina and 23 cities in South Carolina.
“We’re proud to put this event on,” said Karen Sphar, executive vice-president of the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a true community effort. There are more than 100 volunteers.”
She added there are also some people who participate year-after-year, and many bring their families to town for the weekend. The event is also on the Southern Kingfish Association Trail, which draws competitive anglers.
“So, it’s a nice mix of people participating in the tournament,” Sphar said.
With this year’s tournament fast approaching, here’s what you need to know.
This year’s tournament is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 2 through Saturday, Oct. 4.
A Brunswick city named one of the best in the US for boating enthusiastsThe festivities kick off at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2 with registration and packet pick-up at Dutchman Creek Park, 4750 Fish Factory Road, Southport. Food trucks will be on hand from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and there will be live music from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The evening concludes with a captains’ meeting.
On Friday, Oct. 3, the fun begins with lines in the water at 7 a.m., and the scales open at 11 a.m. The weigh-in station is located at Dutchman Creek Park, 4750 Fish Factory Road, Southport. Spectators are welcome to gather and watch the fishermen bring in their catch. Food trucks will be on hand from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fishing concludes at 5 p.m.
On Saturday, Oct. 4, lines hit the water at 7 a.m., the scales open at 11 a.m. Food trucks will be available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fishing ends for the day at 4 p.m. At 5 p.m. the celebration moves to Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill, 4907 Fish Factory Road, Southport, with live music from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and the tournament awards ceremony at 8 p.m.
Participants can register online until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 30. The online registration portal can be found at https://www.usopenkmt.com/Register. The registration fee is $360 per boat. There are optional additional fees for some contests. More information is available on the registration website.
After the online registration period closes, participants may register on site and pick up their packets in person at Dutchman Creek Park, 4750 Fish Factory Road, Southport, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2.
According to information on the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament website, the tournament awards cash prizes for first through 55th place finishers, with first-place boat taking home $25,000. Additional prizes are awarded for special weights and optional contests.
“We give away a lot of money,” Sphar said, of the tournament.
The total purse was more than $426,000 cash for the 2024 tournament and $412,086 for the 2023 tournament.
Yes, Sphar said they love to see spectators at the event.
“It’s a great event, so come out and see it,” she said, adding, “It’s the best in-water boat show you’ll ever see.”
Renee Spencer is the community engagement editor at the StarNews. Reach her at [email protected].
SOUTHPORT, N.C. (WECT) - Phillip Bowen was born and raised in Oak Island, and the events of last Saturday were the last thing he ever expected to hit the seaside community.That night, Bowen stopped in at the bar to have a little fun.“I turned back around and heard a ‘pop pop.’ Naturally, I turned around and looked above the boat to observe the fireworks that [I expected] would go off after the initial pop. And instead I heard another pop and a white light come out just above the transom of the boat.”...
SOUTHPORT, N.C. (WECT) - Phillip Bowen was born and raised in Oak Island, and the events of last Saturday were the last thing he ever expected to hit the seaside community.
That night, Bowen stopped in at the bar to have a little fun.
“I turned back around and heard a ‘pop pop.’ Naturally, I turned around and looked above the boat to observe the fireworks that [I expected] would go off after the initial pop. And instead I heard another pop and a white light come out just above the transom of the boat.”
Bowen says he saw the suspected shooter, Nigel Edge, on his boat.
Not long after, the sound of music and chatter in the crowd was replaced by screams and gunfire.
“By the grace of God, I wasn’t hit because he didn’t aim at me because anything he aimed at, he hit.”
At this point, Bowen had one thing on his mind: get out.
“The only thing that was going through my head was self-preservation,”
In the aftermath of the attack, once Edge was in custody, a new realization plagued Bowen.
“When I heard his name and discovered that, and then it hit me I had met the gentleman six years ago,” said Bowen, “Just before he had been diagnosed with basically schizophrenia.”
Bowen says he spoke with Edge before, noticing the scars that marked him during his history of serving the country.
“You take somebody that’s served our country, trained to be a sniper, where you must kill without remorse and without emotion to be dead calm,” said Bowen. “And he exhibited those exact qualities.”
Bowen says he and Edge had talked. Edge spoke about his service and his struggles. Bowen says he left the conversation feeling frustrated that the Marine veteran wasn’t getting the help he needed.
“I just wanted to listen to him and thank him for his service and not have pity on him for the way he was, but just show him respect and show him love,” said Bowen. “And it’s obvious he didn’t get enough of that. I feel sorry for everybody involved because they’re all victims.”
Bowen feels lucky to be alive, but now he’s only left to think about the lives changed forever and what could have been.
“Our system failed him, and it failed the victims,” said Bowen. “The beauty is the future carries on, and we can change that, and we can do much better, and I pray we do.”
SOUTHPORT, N.C. — The Southport community continues to mourn the victims of last week’s shooting. Among them is 64-year-old Joy Rogers, remembered by neighbors as a woman of faith, kindness and laughter.A memorial filled with flowers and a handwritten sign sits outside the neighborhood where Rogers lived. A friend says she became woven into the community almost right away.What You Need To Know “She was easy to know. Infectious was her smile and her laugh. She just was an easy, natural ...
SOUTHPORT, N.C. — The Southport community continues to mourn the victims of last week’s shooting. Among them is 64-year-old Joy Rogers, remembered by neighbors as a woman of faith, kindness and laughter.
A memorial filled with flowers and a handwritten sign sits outside the neighborhood where Rogers lived. A friend says she became woven into the community almost right away.
“She was easy to know. Infectious was her smile and her laugh. She just was an easy, natural person. I mean, she’s everybody you would want to know,” said Cheryl Shea, a friend and Bible study group leader that Rogers was a part of.
Rogers was part of a circle of neighbors in Arbor Creek, who gathered each Friday to share scripture, prayer and fellowship. The day before the shooting, she stepped in to lead the gathering while Shea was out of town.
“We had heard of the incident, so my husband was texting people, ‘Are you OK? Are you OK?’ And then we texted Lennie that morning, and he said, ‘No, man, I’m not OK. Joy is in heaven,’” Shea said.
Faith was a guiding force in Rogers’ life.
“Faith first and then family. And she had no qualms, was not shy about sharing Jesus and her faith to anybody, but she wasn’t pushy. It was just, it was a natural thing, which is why I think so many people loved her,” Shea said.“Faith first and then family. And she had no qualms, was not shy about sharing Jesus and her faith to anybody, but she wasn’t pushy. It was just, it was a natural thing, which is why I think so many people loved her,” Shea said.
Friends remember not only her devotion but also her joy.
“She loves to wear these like little caftans over things for her clothes. She’s always well put together, and she wears platform sandals,” Shea recalled. “And she came in with her Bible and she just made herself known, and in a great way, not a very overbearing way.”
Shea said there are too many things to count when it comes to what she’ll miss about her friend. Beyond her smile and presence, it was the wisdom Rogers carried into everyday conversations that stood out.
“She had a very grounded, solid discernment and wisdom about her. And you could always get the right nugget when you were having these conversations with her,” Shea said. “I think I will miss those little nuggets the most.”
The loss is still painful, but neighbors say their faith gives them strength.
“I can’t say it’s any easier, but there’s this supernatural grace or peace that comes with something like this. As tragic as it is, that the only way you can do this is through Christ, who strengthens us,” Shea said.
Her neighbors are now honoring Rogers with a tribute in her favorite color. The Christmas House in Southport donated orange bows for people to remember Rogers by hanging them on their mailbox or tree. For Shea, Rogers’ legacy can be summed up in a simple message.
“I would say live like Joy. Live like Joy and you will have joy,” Shea said.
North Carolina Trauma Recovery Network offering free therapy sessions in responseSOUTHPORT, N.C. (WECT) - The North Carolina Trauma Recovery Network (NCTRN) is organizing four complimentary pro bono EMDR therapy sessions for individuals directly impacted by Saturday night’s tragic shooting in Southport.Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is best used in crisis situations to help reduce the effects of the event, according to NCTRN co-coordinator Shanna Reyes.“Research shows there can...
SOUTHPORT, N.C. (WECT) - The North Carolina Trauma Recovery Network (NCTRN) is organizing four complimentary pro bono EMDR therapy sessions for individuals directly impacted by Saturday night’s tragic shooting in Southport.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is best used in crisis situations to help reduce the effects of the event, according to NCTRN co-coordinator Shanna Reyes.
“Research shows there can be a substantial reduction in the effects of this event that could cause people to develop symptoms of trauma or PTSD,” said Reyes. “And those rates for a single incident of trauma can be up to 84% to 100% of a reduction.”
The best use of this therapy is for situations like Saturday’s shooting in Southport, especially for those who arrived first on the scene.
“Very bad scenes are imprinted in some of the first responders’ minds because of the scene they walked into,” said Southport Fire Department Chief Charles Drew.
The Southport Fire Department arrived within minutes of the shooting.
“Once law enforcement cleared the scene, they went right into the area where the shooting victims were and started treating patients and getting them transported to the hospital,” said Drew.
The mass shooting and loss of life were unlike anything most first responders have dealt with before.
That’s why NCTRN put out an all-call for clinicians.
NCTRN is a newly established group, formed in response to Hurricane Helene.
They are in the early stages of this program and have not yet treated anyone in Southport, but are looking for licensed clinicians who have completed basic EMDR training.
“Besides reaching clinicians, we need to reach community entities,” said Reyes. “Police departments, emergency responders, and other entities that are response coordinators, or assist in these types of situations.”
Reyes advises those impacted by the shooting to take action and seek help now, since traumatic events are not easily forgotten.
“Early intervention is a preventative care,” said Reyes. “Trauma symptoms can develop hours, days, months, and years later. This is the best thing you can do for yourself. To come to us and get this treatment so that you prevent a future with symptoms that maybe you had no clue were going to pop up for you.”
And having each other to lean on goes a long way, too.
“We’re a good department, a family-oriented department, and we try to stress that nobody needs to be an island by themselves. Everyone needs to communicate and talk. Our members were checking on people who responded to the scene,” said Drew.
Reyes stressed that nobody anticipates negative reactions to traumatic events, making it crucial to take proactive measures now to improve your well-being, as well as that of your family and friends.
Experiencing tragedy can cause someone to become unable to return to a specific place or be around certain people. It could feel out of control, different or unusual, according to Reyes.
The session would differ from typical “talk therapy”, using specialized techniques to process traumatic events.
“The clinician would use a specific protocol that helps to release those negative memories. You won’t forget the memories, but you may have a different resolved perspective,” said Reyes.
To learn more about the program or how to volunteer, visit nctrn.org or emdrhap.org.
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) - A portion of Highway 211 has reopened in both directions near Southport, according to the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).The Southport Fire Department (SFD) attributed the leak to a major rupture of an 8-inch gas line on Dutchman Acres Lane and Highway 211.The BCSO announced the closure around noon on Sept. 3. Highway 211, between Midway Road and Long Beach Road, was shut down due to the gas leak. The stretch connects Southport and St. James. The closure caused traffic to back up ...
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) - A portion of Highway 211 has reopened in both directions near Southport, according to the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).
The Southport Fire Department (SFD) attributed the leak to a major rupture of an 8-inch gas line on Dutchman Acres Lane and Highway 211.
The BCSO announced the closure around noon on Sept. 3. Highway 211, between Midway Road and Long Beach Road, was shut down due to the gas leak. The stretch connects Southport and St. James. The closure caused traffic to back up as drivers entered Southport Wednesday afternoon.
Neighborhoods and businesses were evacuated, including Grace Community Church Preschool and homes within two blocks of Dutchman Acres Lane.
SFD said a total of 19 children and 39 adults were evacuated, including students from the Grace Community Church Preschool. Brunswick County evacuation buses were visible heading away from the leak early Wednesday afternoon.
The only injury related to the leak was a firefighter overheating while responding to the call, Southport Fire Chief Charles Drew said.
“It’s been a very good event,” he said. “We haven’t had any injuries, everybody is gonna home safe, and that’s the main goal.”
SFD was on scene alongside several mutual aid partners and Piedmont Gas Company, working on the leak. Brunswick County Sheriff’s Deputies helped direct traffic once the road closure went into effect. The road reopened around 2:45 p.m.
The Town of Oak Island established a detour through Oak Island, utilizing E. Oak Island Drive.
Just two weeks ago, a massive building explosion rocked Wilmington after a driver hit a gas line. The explosion sent five firefighters to the hospital.
Chief Drew said that incident is an example of why their crews take gas leak calls so seriously.
“I think that sometimes the public doesn’t know just how dangerous gas is,” he said. “It is a very dangerous component that firefighters deal with almost on a daily basis. We have to take a lot of precaution.”
919-554-2223
