Eye care home serves up residents’ tennis wish in ‘grandstyle’

A resident at a care home in Eye has had her wish for an ace afternoon of serves and strawberries granted.

The café at Care UK’s Hartismere Place, on Castleton Way, was transformed into a mini tennis court after the team learned about resident Suza Dickson, aged 80, and her heartfelt wish to play tennis again.

To bring the experience to life, residents gathered in the café, sipping on Pimm’s and enjoying generous helpings of strawberries and cream as they captured the true spirit of a British summer tradition.

For the occasion, a tennis net was set up in the cafe, with team members acting as umpires while Suza and other residents took part in a mini-tournament. 

Suza played tennis for enjoyment throughout her life at Wortham Tennis Club, where she was a member for over 30 years. She continued playing until the age of 75. Some of her fondest tennis memories include watching Wimbledon and cheering for her favourite player, Tim Henman.

Suza said: “It was great fun picking up a racket and playing tennis again. I couldn't believe I could play so well still!”

Suza hung her wish to play tennis on the Hartismere Place Wishing Tree, a special Care UK initiative that enables residents to revisit old hobbies and passions or try something new. Whether it’s a fish and chip supper, a skydive or watching a football match, no wish is too big or small for the team to try to grant. 

Claire Martin, Home Manager at Hartismere Place, said “We were absolutely delighted to help make Suza’s wish come true. Seeing her light up while picking up a racket again was incredibly special.

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their dreams and interests, and it’s so rewarding to bring these moments to life. Making wishes come true is all part of the service at Care UK!

“Suza has had a lifelong love of tennis so recreating that experience meant the world to her. It wasn’t just about the tennis, it was about rekindling cherished memories, enjoying the social atmosphere, and feeling the excitement of the sport once more.”

Hartismere Place, rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential, dementia, and short-term respite care. The team also operates a day centre, the Hartismere Place Day Club, which is open to the community throughout the week.