Balhousie Brookfield resident Jim Gray had the time of his life thanks to the staff’s Valentine’s Wishes idea, reliving his career in the Royal Navy.
Last month, the team at the Carnoustie home handed out vouchers which the residents were able to exchange for a wish.
Royal Navy veteran Jim wanted to relive his days sailing the high seas, and the staff pulled out all the stops to make it happen by arranging a full naval experience.
First up for Jim on his big day was a visit from Chief Petty Officer Alexander Harris, who made the trip to Brookfield – and brought along some old naval photos and memorabilia.
Lisa Thomson, Home Manager, and Lisa McGuinness, Carer, then arranged for Jim to visit HMS Unicorn, which is moored at Dundee’s Victoria Dock.
His special day was rounded off by a trip to visit the Dundee Sea Cadets, who treated him to a very special parade before presenting him with memorabilia from the ships he served on, including HMS Puma.
Lisa Thomson, Home Manager at Balhousie Brookfield, said: “Jim had a wonderful time reliving his time in the Royal Navy. He was in his element and loved every minute. He hasn’t stopped talking about it since.
“He is so passionate about his time in the navy and loves telling us stories about his adventures at sea, so it was fantastic to be able to help him take a trip down memory lane.
“Everyone teared up when one of the cadets saluted Jim, said ‘pleasure to have you on board, sir’, and he saluted back. It was a beautiful moment which encapsulated everything the day was about.
“Jim and all our residents mean the world to us, and every day we strive to provide them with activities which are meaningful to them.
“We are so grateful to Dundee Sea Cadets and Chief Petty Officer Harris, as well as the whole team here at Balhousie Brookfield for giving up their time to make Jim’s day so very special.”
Jim, who spent around a decade in the Royal Navy, serving in the Mediterranean, the Suez and Gibraltar, said: “It was wonderful, it really was. It was a lovely evening.
“Anything to do with naval things interests people who have been in the navy. Although they’re not able to do it themselves, they can admire what the cadets are doing.
“It was a lovely experience I had, and I thank the staff for enabling me to have it.”
Jim’s day out was arranged as part of Valentine’s Wishes, which was organised by the staff at Brookfield.
Residents were asked for a wish and were then given vouchers they could exchange to make it happen.
One resident wished for a fish supper, while another asked to share a pizza with her grandson. Another was taken for a spin round Angus in a luxury car.
Watch Jim and Lisa discuss the day out below.
