Who says life's celebrations must change when you move into a care home? Hilary Smith, a resident at Colwall Care Home, proved that special occasions are still very much to be enjoyed when she marked her 83rd birthday with two parties, bringing together friends, family, fellow residents and team members for a day filled with laughter, music and happy memories.
Sharing her birthday with Health Care Assistant Sibongile Savage, affectionately known as Pearl, the pair decided that 83 was certainly no reason not to celebrate being 21 again!
The morning celebrations brought together residents, relatives and team members in the home's Library and Craft Room, where guests enjoyed refreshments, balloons and a specially prepared birthday cake. Hilary even chose the music for the occasion, including Peggy Lee's classic 'Mr Wonderful', while artwork by her friend Carole was displayed around the room.
A particularly special moment came when Hilary's birthday speech was read aloud by a friend. Having taken the time to write her own words, she used the opportunity to thank Rotherwood and individually recognise the different members of the Colwall Care Home team.
The celebrations continued into the afternoon, when Hilary welcomed 35 of her closest friends and family for a more intimate gathering, complete with cupcakes prepared by the home's kitchen team.
The occasion was especially meaningful for Hilary, who has strong connections to the local community. Having lived in the area for many years, she previously worked as Assistant Head Teacher at The Chase High School, a role she remembers fondly. Her former bungalow was situated directly opposite the site of Colwall Care Home, meaning she was able to watch the home being built before eventually becoming a resident herself.
Hilary initially joined the home in July for a respite stay but enjoyed her experience so much that she decided to make it her permanent home.
Since moving in, she has quickly become a familiar and welcoming face, taking a particular interest in helping new residents settle in. During the home's Pamper Day in July, Hilary even volunteered as Resident Liaison, proudly showing visitors around the home with her clipboard and sharing information about the facilities. She continues to enjoy giving her friends a tour whenever they come to visit.
Reflecting on her birthday celebrations, Hilary said: "A wonderful occasion on which I saw friends and family and gave us all the opportunity to chat, socialise and reminisce, especially about our many years of friendship and happy teaching times at The Chase High School."
The celebrations were a lovely reflection of the friendships, connections and individual moments that make life at Colwall Care Home so special.
