Sidcup care home residents share the secret to a long marriage

Love was in the air at a Sidcup care home when two residents marked their sapphire wedding anniversary.

Residents, Mya, 89, and David Turgoose 93, toasted their 65^th wedding anniversary at Care UK’s Smyth Lodge, on Frognal Avenue, where they both live. To mark the occasion, the care home team decorated the home’s lounge with balloons, banners and flowers, before the couple enjoyed a family meal at a local restaurant. 

For Mya and David, it was love at first sight when they met at the social club where Mya worked. After a magical first date – at a dance on New Years Eve in 1957 – they quickly fell head over heels for each other, marrying less than 12 months later. The happy couple enjoyed an intimate wedding day, celebrating with their closest friends and family, at St Lukes Church in Plymouth on 25^th October 1958. 

After Mya and David got married, they moved to Chatham, where they raised their two children, Simon and Stephanie. The couple now have seven grandchildren – three of which live in the UK and who enjoy regular visits to Smyth Lodge to see their grandparents, and four living in New Zealand.

When asked the secret to a long and happy marriage, Mya and David agreed: “Don’t marry too young, stick it out, be tolerant and agree on the big things in life.”

The inseparable couple chose to move to Smyth Lodge nine months ago, as it gave them the opportunity to stay together while receiving care they need.

Tracey Cheeseman, Home Manager at Smyth Lodge, said: “Here at Smyth Lodge, we regularly celebrate big anniversaries and understand the importance of maintaining relationships and celebrating life’s milestones. We were honoured to be a part of such a special moment for Mya and David. They are truly inseparable, and we can all learn a thing or two from their long-lasting marriage.  

“Marking such a special occasion at the home allowed many of the residents to reminisce and share fond memories of their own wedding days – it was lovely to hear their stories too. Happy 65^th wedding anniversary Mya and David!”

Smyth Lodge has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as respite care.