Celebrating 60 Years of Marriage at a Sparkling Event
The team and residents at Brooklyn House Care Home in Attleborough shared a magical day on April 4th, celebrating the Diamond Wedding Anniversary of much loved resident couple Ann and Roger. Married in the village of New Buckenham in 1964, the couple have always lived in Norfolk, and moved into Brooklyn House last August.
Marking 60 glorious years, Ann and Roger were surrounded by family, friends, fellow residents and Brooklyn House team members. They were also joined by some special guests from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), an organisation they had both been involved with since the opening of its Quidenham site in 1991.
A Longstanding Commitment to Volunteering
As a trained nurse, Ann helped interview members of the first care team at Quidenham and took on some administration tasks in the early days, then supported by organising coffee mornings and collections across the region. Roger assisted with the books and could often be seen manning the car park. They went on to volunteer many, many hours of their time for EACH, becoming known as “the grandparents” because of the affection they showed to children receiving care.
“It’s important to give something back and that feeling never leaves you,” said Ann. “The children have always mattered to us, and we’ve enjoyed doing what we can to help, although it’s only now, looking back, that I feel a sense of pride. At the time, you just get on with it and do what you need to do. It’s been a real privilege and I’d still be involved today if I could. It’s only my lack of mobility that stops me.”
Although unable to volunteer anymore, the couple still keep in touch with old friends and they were delighted to hear a surprise recording made by the team at EACH, which Catrina and Agnes from the wellbeing team played for them just before the first guests arrived for the event at Brooklyn House.
Sharing Special Memories to Celebrate 60 Years
Home Manager, Rosalind and administrator, Melanie had ordered decorations for the big event, which Catrina and Agnes used to create a lovely setting for the celebrations. Tomasz, who looks after maintenance at Brooklyn House, mounted some memory boards which featured photos of Anne and Roger’s journey through life together. Some of these reflected Roger’s years as a keen sportsman when he played cricket, bowls and table tennis, as well as being a football referee!
The room filled, and there were lots of smiles and a happy atmosphere as memories were shared. Tea, coffee and of course some wine, were served alongside delicious cupcakes and a beautiful iced cake, made specially by the chefs at Brooklyn House, which was officially cut by the couple.
Ann said: “I can’t believe it’s been 60 years. Not many couples are that fortunate and we’ve always looked out for each other, talked and laughed a lot, which is so important. Roger has a very cheeky sense of humour and even now, after all these years, I’m not sure if he’s being serious or pulling my leg. He still catches me out! We’ve never had a proper argument and always been strong for each other.”
The afternoon was wonderful celebration of a shared life. Home Manager, Rosalind, summed up the feeling in the room when she remarked, “It was an absolute privilege to be a part of this special couple's day.”
Our Modern Care Home in Norfolk
Brooklyn House Nursing Home is a modern, purpose-built care home in Norfolk, situated in the heart of the attractive market town of Attleborough, offering the highest levels of residential and nursing care for up to 38 elderly people. With all the amenities of a modern home, you’ll find first-class facilities, a range of activities, and plenty of places to relax or entertain. Residents can explore the shops, coffee houses and bistros around Queen’s Square and Exchange Street and, when the weather is fine, our secluded terrace and enclosed gardens offer a tranquil retreat.
