Edgemoor is a wonderful facility that has shown our family there are still truly caring people in this world. The staff in Barona have been amazing with our brother. From the incredible team members — Aresbe, Von, Denise,Aria, Laurie and Sarah really the entire team — who go above and beyond every day to help improve his quality of life, to the nurses who always take the time to explain everything that is happening with care and compassion.
This is not just a facility; it has become a home for our brother and a place that gives our family peace of mind knowing he is valued and cared for by others.
Last week, I had a conversation with the supervisor, Cathy, and something she said really stayed with me. She shared that the 32 patients she oversees are not just patients to her — they are her children. That level of compassion speaks volumes about the culture at Edgemoor Barona.
Thank you, Edgemoor Barona, for making such a difficult time in our family’s life easier and for giving us comfort and peace of mind. We truly appreciate all that you do.
On October 5 of last year, our brother Radford suffered a catastrophic brain aneurysm and a carotid artery dissection while in Ocean Beach. He was admitted to Scripps Mercy Hospital, where he remained for over two months. During that time, he endured two strokes--one caused by a bleeding ulcer--as well as the placement of a stent in his brain to relieve pressure. To say he underwent at least six surgeries is likely an understatement. Thanks to an extraordinary surgical team and, without question, God's grace, he survived a moment when we were preparing to remove life support and organ donation was already being discussed. There is no doubt in our minds that his survival is nothing short of a miracle.
Following this ordeal, we faced the overwhelming challenge of finding a long-term skilled nursing facility that accepted Medi-Cal. With limited options and tremendous uncertainty, Edgemoor Skilled Nursing Facility came to us unexpectedly--truly as a vision of hope. While some older reviews gave us pause, we also heard from others that the facility had changed significantly for the better in recent years. Trusting our instincts (and a higher power), we decided to move forward--and we are profoundly grateful that we did.
The newer side of the facility is clean, well-maintained, and welcoming. However, what truly sets Edgemoor apart is its people. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted not as visitors, but as family. Doctors, nurses, CNAs, and staff members surrounded us with compassion, professionalism, and genuine concern. Three doctors were present during the intake process, taking the time to ask thoughtful questions about who our brother was--and who he still is--especially since he was unable to speak clearly or move beyond slight hand gestures. They were patient, clear, and intentional in their communication, ensuring we fully understood every step.
As I repeatedly thanked them for the care and attention they were showing, their response was both humble and reassuring: they acknowledged that while they may not be perfect, they are always willing to listen, learn, and improve. That level of honesty and accountability is rare and deeply appreciated.
Our brother has now been at Edgemoor for nearly a month, and I can confidently say that our family feels a growing sense of peace. My anxiety has eased, and I can finally breathe a little easier knowing he is in capable, caring hands. Between my sister, brother-in-law, niece, friends, and myself, someone visits almost daily and at varying times, so we have seen different facets of everyday life within. While we are still learning the procedures and routines, we have already witnessed remarkable progress. His growth--both physically and cognitively--is evident, thanks to the comprehensive therapies and the unwavering patience and kindness of the Doctors, nurses, CNAs, and staff. Their genuine care is something you can truly feel.
As with any facility, occasional differences of opinion may arise, but every concern we've encountered has been resolved through open and respectful communication.
I plan to continue sharing updates as time goes on, but my intuition tells me we are exactly where we are meant to be. Our brother is in the best hands possible, and we are deeply thankful to the entire Edgemoor team for the compassion, dedication, and hope they provide every day.
This skilled nursing facility (it is not a nursing home) has won numerous awards and accolades, and for good reason. Edgemoor was my son's home for nearly 8 years. During that time he received outstanding and loving care from the entire staff--from the doctors to the nurses to the maintenance staff to the security staff. Edgemoor serves a very special population that can be difficult and challenging--on a good day. Their communication with our family was excellent and any concerns or complaints were handled quickly and efficiently. When our son fell seriously ill and needed hospice care, the Edgemoor doctors stepped in to provide loving and palliative care until he passed in a place where he felt love and joy. (The photos shown here are from the old Edgemoor, the new facility is state-of-the-art, beautiful, and very very clean.)