Stroud care home resident’s wish to fly in helicopter made a reality

A Stroud care home resident was thrilled when her wish to take to the skies was made a reality.

When 97-year-old Ruby Wakefield, a resident at Care UK’s Scarlet House, on Westward Road, shared with the team that she had been inspired by a fellow resident to fulfil her ambition of flying, they set out to make her dream a reality. 

As a child, Ruby’s father was an avid builder of model airplanes and founded Gloucester Community Model Airplane Club. Together with her family, Ruby spent many treasured days out at Staverton Airport which sparked her love for flying. Having already experienced a flight in both a glider and a hot air balloon, a helicopter ride was next on Ruby’s list.

The team organised the experience of a lifetime for Ruby – taking her to Gloucestershire Airport where she embarked on a Robinson R44 for a scenic ride over the beautiful Cotswolds.

Commenting on the experience, Ruby said: “It was magic – I loved it! My highlight was when the pilot flew over Mayhill which is where I lived for 19 years, it was amazing to see the town from above!”

The visit was part of the home’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to put wishes forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new – from flying on a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small.

Lydnsey Dixon, Home Manager at Scarlet House, said: “Here at Scarlet House, we’re passionate about supporting residents to lead fulfilling lives, so when Ruby shared she was keen to experience a flight in a helicopter for the first time, the team were determined to help her find her wings. 

“Our wishing tree initiative is a great way for residents to share their dreams, passions and interests, and it’s so rewarding to be able to make these a reality. Ruby is proof that dreams a can come true at any age, she had a wonderful time and hasn’t stopped smiling since.

“I’d like to extend a big thank you to our team here at Scarlet House, as well as to Gloucestershire Airport, for making Ruby’s wish come true!”

Scarlet House is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia, nursing dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.