Gilles Laurent (59), a resident at Douglas Court Care Home in Derby who is passionate about food and worked as a chef at Bistro Pierre has been cooking up a storm in the kitchen thanks to the Care Homes Make A Wish program.
As part of Douglas Court & Adept Care Home’s Make a Wish initiative, which encourages over 500 residents to share their wishes, no matter how big or small, Gilles wrote his wish down and gave it to the Wellbeing Team. Every month at least one resident is picked at random to see their wish come true.
Gilles expressed his desire to be the home’s Head Chef for a day, a wish that was granted with heartfelt enthusiasm.
Gilles’s wish day began with a morning spent in the home’s kitchen, where he joined forces with Hazel, the resident caterer, to show off his skills and techniques in culinary arts. Together, they embarked on the task of creating a delicious Chilli Con Carne dish to be enjoyed by the entire community at lunchtime.
“Gilles absolutely loved his time in the kitchen, cooking alongside Hazel,” said Naomi Jones, Hospitality Manager. “His passion and enthusiasm was contagious, and it was a joy to witness.”
After a morning of hard work and culinary creativity, Gilles proudly presented his homemade Chilli Con Carne dish to the Douglas Court residents for the official taste test during the lunchtime meal. The dish received rave reviews from all who tasted it, with many praising Gilles for his talent and skill in the kitchen.
“We absolutely loved the meal, and thought Gilles did an excellent job as Head Chef for the day,” remarked one resident. “His passion and dedication were evident in every bite, and we can’t wait to enjoy many more of his tasty recipes in the future.” Gilles is now set to join the kitchen team once a month in a day being fondly referred to as ‘Bistro Gilles’ to create more culinary masterpieces for everyone to enjoy.
The Make A Wish initiative at Douglas Court Care Home embodies the home’s commitment to providing personalised and enriching experiences for its residents, ensuring that their wishes and dreams are honoured and fulfilled. Gilles’s memorable day as Head Chef serves as a testament to the power of compassion, dignity, and joy in enhancing the lives of those in care.