A Resident at HC-One’s Defoe Court in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, planned a surprise birthday for his wife, who visits him every day at the home.
Bill and Gina have been married for 18 years and Bill has always celebrated his wife’s birthday by surprising her every year. When the team found out about this, they got together with Bill to organise a birthday to remember.
Val, the Wellbeing Co-Ordinator, took Bill out shopping for Gina’s presents and decorations, which the team then used to decorate Bill’s room. Bill struggles with his speech but wanted to surprise Gina by singing happy birthday to her so with the help of Toni and her ukulele, they practiced until he was word perfect.
As Gina turned up at Defoe Court, Toni began playing the ukulele and Bill sang happy birthday to his wife perfectly. Gina was overwhelmed and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
They enjoyed opening presents together before being whisked away to a beautiful garden centre in Northallerton with a tearoom attached, where they enjoyed an all-expenses paid afternoon tea from everyone at Defoe Court.
Gina commented:
“I can’t thank the staff enough for the love they have shown Bill and I and the support they have given to help Bill celebrate the most perfect birthday, just like we used to.”
Defoe Court’s Home Manager, Sarah Todd commented:
“It was lovely to see Bill and Gina together; they are the most amazing couple.
The love and support all the staff show the Residents at Defoe Court is heart-warming. They go above and beyond every single day, I am so proud of my team.”