Untie The Spirit : The Eden Alternative And Sherbrooke Community Centre - Thelma Pepper

This work documents the adoption of the Eden Alternative care philosophy at the Sherbrooke Community Centre, a long-term care facility in Saskatoon. Founded by Dr. William Thomas of Shelburne, New York, the Eden Alternative emphasized a more humane, relationship-centred approach to the care of the elderly. Photographer Thelma Pepper became closely involved with the centre while visiting her husband Jim, who was a resident, and during this time began photographing residents and staff. Her images, marked by warmth, dignity, and moments of everyday joy, formed the basis of a travelling exhibition organized by Honor Kever. The book reflects both the photographic project and the philosophy of care that inspired it.