Fly away home little balloon
the JOURNEY has just begun for a balloon that was released from Middletown House Nursing Home and Retirement Village by residents to mark moving forward from a difficult time of the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Since the event, which saw staff, residents and invited guests hold a moment’s silence in solidarity with those who are grieving the loss of loved ones, as well as supporting frontline workers and nursing homes, the balloon has gotten as far as North Devon, in the UK.
Music was provided on the day by a favourite of the residents Alvin, who had been unable until to visit the nursing home for activities during the tough time. Prayers were led by Father Tom Dalton who was joined by Archdeacon Bob Gray and activities co-ordinator Patrica Carroll with Hannah Doyle released the balloon.
Director of Nursing Deepa George said that it was a day of mixed emotions for all but one that the residents and staff thoroughly enjoyed it.
‘ The idea behind it was that we’re all living in hope to see a better day. It promoted positivity and introduced the idea of having something to look forward. It has been a hard time for the residents, particularly not seeing family and we understand and acknowledge that. We are trying to help them get through this.
‘ They made a tree of hope with feathers, and all we all decided to put the feathers in the balloon and release it. They prepared their songs and they were so happy to see Alvin as they’re used to singing along with him. They thoroughly enjoyed it and from their perspective it was a really happy experience’.
It was a nice opportunity to get out in the recent good weather, and since the release Middletown have been hearing about how far the balloon went to.
Deepa thanked all present on the day for their help.