Kingston Vale care home resident returns to sailing roots

It was all hands on deck for a former sailor when his care home in Kingston Vale arranged for him to take to the water once again.

Team members at Care UK’s Sherwood Grange, on Robin Hood Lane, pulled out all the stops for 86-year-old resident Sean O’Leary when they learned about his lifelong love of boating and the joyful memories he made riding the waves with his family.

Sean, who lives with mild dementia, spent many of his happiest years owning a fishing boat in Bullock Harbour, Ireland. He regularly took to the seas with his children, Maire, Emer, Sean and Michael, experiencing treasured family adventures.

Sean said: “It meant so much to be on the river again and watch the world go by.”

To recreate those happy memories, the Sherwood Grange team spoke with Maire and arranged a personalised River Thames boat trip for them both from Kingston to Lower Sunbury.

During the trip, Sean reminisced about his days at sea, recalling memories of fishing adventures and family outings. He cut a relaxed figure as he enjoyed the feeling of being out on the water once again.

Sean said: “My favourite part was being back on the water again and getting to spend the time with my daughter.”

Sean’s experience was made possible thanks to Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to suggest ideas for new hobbies they’d like to try, places they’d like to visit or even activities linked to past careers. From skiing trips to a fish and chip supper, the programme is designed to help residents lead fun and rewarding lives.

Malgo Wcislo, Home Manager at Sherwood Grange, said: “Sean often speaks about the joy his boat brought him and the adventures he shared with his family in Ireland, so when he wished to go sailing again, we knew we had to make it happen.

“The trip exceeded all our expectations. Seeing Sean reminisce, share stories and enjoy such a meaningful time with his daughter was incredibly special.

“At Sherwood Grange, we are passionate about delivering experiences like this that show just how powerful it can be to reconnect residents with the people, places and passions that have shaped their lives.”

Sherwood Grange provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. It features a cinema, hair and beauty salon and café, and incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies.