(Apologies that I am a bit late posting this update, but I just started a new job so haven’t had much spare time – Nikky)
Yesterday, Sunday 10th October, was our second scheduled meeting after lock-down of those involved in OPHF4YO’s, after extensive checking on all families concerned by Mason’s Mum. Many thanks to her for that.
If I say that I was disappointed with the turn-out at the first meeting, I have to admit that I was more so yesterday. Only Phoenix with his young Brother Lorcan and Mum, and eventually Mason, his young Sister and their Mum, arrived later after his Rugby match. All the others had last minute visits, holidays or appointments that cropped up. Fred and I were the only Residents to turn up except for a brief visit from Pauline who had her Family and Grandchild with her. The others had sent their apologies but Sylvia’s Daughter and Husband came as they always had done.
Actually it was a pleasant meeting, with the 4 Children playing together and the Adults sharing experiences, so much so that we didn’t break up until well after the scheduled 2 hours.
Phoenix’s Mum promised to do the investigating into the best day and time for the next meeting, provisionally scheduled for 4 weeks time.
On another note, I just happened across this on Facebook, posted by an old colleague, and again it reaffirms the hugely beneficial effect of mixing the old and the young, just like OPHF4YO, and I really wish that Extracare would move more quickly to implement some kind of initiative to carry on the benefits of OPHF4YO.

Brilliant idea being implemented in Canada. They combined nursing homes with the orphanages. The result exceeded all expectations! Elders found grandchildren, orphans experienced the love and care for their parents for the first time. The elderly have improved significantly in their health and their will to live. Their interest in life is back, the doctors said. We all need love..