Kathleen Bradley (80), affectionately known as Pat, has long dreamed of returning to Salou in Spain, a place filled with cherished memories shared with her late husband, Ken.
As part of Chetwynd House Care Home’s Make a Wish initiative, which encourages over 500 residents to share their wishes, no matter how big or small, Pat wrote her wish down and placed it in the homes Magic Wishing Well with everyone else’s, not thinking it would ever become a reality. Every month at least one resident is picked at random to see their wish come true.
“With the support of the caring team, Pat’s family, and the community at Chetwynd House, Pat’s wish, deemed by her daughter Nicola as ‘a once in a lifetime wish,’ to revisit Pat and Ken’s Happy Place for one last time, was about to become a reality,” said Pat’s daughter Nicola.
Pat used to visit Salou twice a year, every year with Ken for over three decades, forming deep connections and friendships along the way. Their favourite destination was the CYE Apartments, where they shared countless moments of joy and relaxation together. After the loss of Ken, Pat yearned to return to Salou one last time to reminisce and reconnect with old friends, particularly Jane and Gary Price, whom she met during their travels.
Pat’s journey to Salou was made even more special by the heartwarming reunion with Conixia, the former receptionist at the CYE Apartments. Conixia had worked at the apartments for over 20 years and shared a special bond with Pat and Ken during their visits. Upon hearing about Pat’s once-in-a-lifetime trip, Conixia travelled from the mountains to the coastal town to make a special visit and reconnect with Pat.
Despite never having flown before, Pat bravely decided that now was the perfect time to check off this adventure from her bucket list.
“This heartwarming initiative highlights Chetwynd House’s commitment to providing personalized and enriching experiences for its residents, ensuring that their wishes and dreams are honoured and fulfilled. The ‘Make A Wish’ program embodies the spirit of compassion, dignity, and respect that defines the care provided at Chetwynd House Care Home,” said Danielle Clarke, Activities and Well-being Lead at Chetwynd House.
“That I am over here when I never thought I would be again means more than anyone could possibly realize. I’m so thankful that my wish was chosen, and that Chetwynd House has given me these wonderful memories,” said Pat. “It’s been emotional being here without Ken and seeing friends who I didn’t think I’d get the chance to again, but also to see places that held so many wonderful memories for us. I will never be able to thank them enough for this.”
For more information or to inquire about the “Make A Wish” program, please contact Danielle Clarke at 01156 979767 or chetwynd@adeptcarehomes.co.uk.
You made my mum’s wish come true and we will never be able to thank you enough