Sisters give special gift to nursing home residents

Dec. 26--Residents of Pruitt Health in Barnwell received a special gift before Christmas thanks to two sisters.

Izzie Brandt is a 9-year-old fourth grader at Andrew Jackson Academy who has been volunteering at Pruitt Health nursing center since October 2017. She plays Bingo with the residents.

"Izzie has developed a bond with the residents of Pruitt Health Nursing & Rehab Center. She loves the elderly," said Jessica Owens, activities director at Pruitt Health Barnwell.

Izzie is the reigning Preteen Miss South Carolina All-Star United States while her sister Kinsley Breland, a senior at Barnwell High, is the reigning Miss South Carolina All-Star United States. Both girls will compete in Savannah, Ga. in late July 2019 at the national level.

Izzie's platform is "#FORGETMENOT" to remind others to visit the elderly and spend time with them. Recently, she decided to collect baby dolls and stuffed puppy dogs for an Alzheimer's unit in Lexington. She had an overwhelming response from friends all over South Carolina who sent money to help buy the dolls and puppies.

She received more than enough money to purchase 37 dolls and 8 stuffed dogs. With the extra money, she did a service project through Build-A-Bear to purchase 44 bears. She and her mom personalized the bears with shirts that read #FORGETMENOT. On Dec. 18, Izzie and Kinsley delivered the bears to the Barnwell nursing home.

"The residents were so excited to receive the gifts. We can't thank them enough," said Owens.

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