Sail-ebrations all around! Ware care home resident takes trip to remember

A Ware care home resident was delighted when their wish to take a cruise down memory lane was made a reality.

When the team at Care UK’s Snowdrop House, on Baldock Street, learned that 95-year-old Richard Evans was keen to cruise the Hertfordshire canals, they were determined to make his wish come true.

In his younger days, Richard and his family owned a 50 and 60ft narrow boat, which they used to explore the country on many fun-filled holidays. Keen to relive these fond memories, Richard wanted to take the helm once again.

The team organised a trip along the River Stort, going from Harlow to Roydon, with the help of CanalAbility. Richard was joined by his wife, Annike, along with some of the other residents from the home, who were keen to enjoy the relaxing day out, complete with a delicious picnic.

Commenting on the experience, Richard said: “It was a perfect day! The best part was getting to take the helm once again – it brought back so many memories.”

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.

Clare Crow, Home Manager at Snowdrop House, added: “When Richard shared his wish to go on a canal boat trip, the team were thrilled to help make it happen.

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their ambitions and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these a reality. Richard, Annike and the rest of the crew clearly had a wonderful time – they haven’t stopped smiling since!

“I’d like to extend a big thank you to the team here at Snowdrop House, as well as everyone at CanalAbility who helped make Richard’s wish a reality – he’s already talking about going back!”

To find out more about the home, contact Customer Relations Manager, Jade Rackham, on jade.rackham@careuk.com or call 01920 897553

For general information, please visit careuk.com/snowdrop-house 

Snowdrop House is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, 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.