Two local Merchant Navy veterans have formed a friendship thanks to the help of the teams at two neighbouring HC-One care homes in the Tyne and Wear area.
Alan Cameron, a 93-year-old former Engineering Officer now resides at Gateshead based care home, Springfield House and keeps himself busy researching his family history, listening to his large music collection, reading and watching his favourite TV shows.
Alan expressed his desire to meet someone who shares his common interests and his Merchant Navy background to HC-One marketing representative, Dionne Kingsley. After visiting Residents at other local HC-One care homes, Dionne reached out to Alan to see if he would be interested in meeting Geoffrey Reeve, a 91-year-old former Merchant Navy Captain who lives in Fleming Court care home in Jesmond.
It was soon arranged for the pair to meet at Springfield House in Low Fell, they shared lunch and talked about their time serving in the Merchant Navy, Geoffrey spoke of his 44 years in the Merchant Navy during which he was the Captain of The Australian Star, New Zeland Star, Brazilian Star and Patagonia Star. After lunch, the veterans went to Alan’s suite in the home where they chatted further and looked through various books and records of interest.
Both gentlemen had a wonderful afternoon and commented on how nice it was to spend time with someone with a similar background and shared interests. Since their meeting, they have stayed in contact with each other via phone calls and hope organise another meeting again very soon.
Dionne Kingsley, HC-One marketing representative said: “I am so happy that I was able to introduce Alan and Geoffrey, they are such wonderful men and I knew that they would enjoy each other’s company. I hope this is the start a new friendship for these gentlemen.”
Stephen Butterworth, HC-One Managing Director commented: “It is amazing to hear that Alan and Geoffrey have had the opportunity to meet and bond over their common interests. At HC-One we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of Residents and creating special moments like this is an important part of how HC-One provides the kindest care.”