Sanford House Celebrates Resident Violet’s Irish Roots With A Musical Treat
When resident Violet was asked what ‘wish’ she would like to be granted this year, she replied, “Anything with Irish music ..” – a request that was delivered with a real flourish by the Sanford House team.
A Strong Love for Ireland – the Country of her Birth
Violet – named after the colour of her eyes when she was born – began her life in Ireland before eventually moving to England. She still has an Irish twang to her accent and although living with dementia, Violet retains a strong love for Ireland, holding all things Irish dear – particularly Irish music.
It also happens that Maebh, Home Manager of Sanford House Nursing Home in Dereham, is Irish, and coincidentally, the names of two areas in the care home also have Irish origins: Carrick - an anglicised word derived from the Irish ‘Carraig’ which means rock and Shannon, a river in Ireland. When she heard of Violet’s request, Maebh was immediately on the case looking for an Irish entertainer and found Gerry Morris who was invited to perform for Violet.
Tin Whistle Tune the Highlight of an Irish Musical Medley
On Violet’s special day, she and the other residents gathered in the Carrick lounge. To conjure up the spirit of the Emerald Isle, everyone watched YouTube clips of some stunningly beautiful Irish scenery. Then Gerry arrived and delivered a full set of fabulous entertainment. He played guitar and sang a wide range of songs, many of which were well known so everyone could sing along. He told stories and engaged staff and residents between songs – and as well as his guitar, Gerry played a tune on the harmonica and on his Irish tin whistle. Violet was transfixed as he played the whistle, tapping her foot and clapping her hands, telling him he was very good and absolutely lovely! It was a truly magical moment that melted the team’s hearts.
Treats from the Emerald Isle
Maebh had recently been back home to Ireland and had returned with some authentic Irish snacks which were served after the show, including boxty, potato bread, white pudding and some crisps and chocolates that are only sold in Ireland. This event also fell on the home's ‘Hydration Heroes Trolley Tuesday’ so it was the perfect opportunity for an Irish themed drinks trolley. Irish Cider, Irish Cream and Irish coffees were on offer alongside the regular range of hydrating drinks – all very much appreciated, especially by those residents and staff who had been singing along with Gerry!
Fun to Have a Bit of a Knees Up!
While the group in the Carrick lounge enjoyed their drinks and snacks, Gerry popped in to see those residents in their rooms who had been unable to join the gathering in the lounge. These residents and some of their guests were serenaded in their beds by Gerry and his guitar.
The Irish-themed musical interlude was extremely well received. Comments from Sanford’s residents included, “It was fun to have a bit of a knees up”, “I don’t know all the songs but I liked them”, and “He’s good for a giggle, isn’t he”!
With Violet’s delighted reaction to Gerry’s music, especially the tin whistle, and so much positivity around Gerry’s visit, everyone is in full agreement that he should be invited to entertain at Sanford House again!
Providing Warm and Compassionate Care
At Sanford House Nursing Home in Dereham, we understand how emotional and uncertain the journey into care can be, whether you're looking for support with daily living, dementia care, or end-of-life palliative care for a loved one.
Our welcoming, purpose-built home offers residential, nursing, dementia and palliative care in a peaceful, single-storey setting designed for comfort and ease of access. Thoughtfully arranged around a sensory courtyard garden, many rooms open directly onto this calming outdoor space, offering a sense of privacy, peace and connection with nature.
