Dochas Carers Centre celebrates 21 years
Friends, family and loyal supporters of the Dochas Centre in Lochgilphead packed the centre on Thursday February 28 to celebrate its 21st anniversary.
The Dochas Centre’s founder, Catherine Paterson, was presented with flowers, a 21st birthday balloon and a birthday cake while the packed room of supporters sang happy birthday to the Dochas Centre.
Founded in February 1998, the Dochas Centre has been a hub of support and fun for carers all over Mid Argyll, offering therapy but also a simple chat to those struggling throughout the community.
Catherine Paterson founded the Dochas Carers Centre with her husband John Paterson when he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease and struggled to continue with his favourite hobby of painting, the condition making it almost impossible to hold a paintbrush. His artistic talents and desire to help others paved the way for the Dochas Centre, which functions as a gallery for local artists and a support centre for carers and who they care for.
In a birthday speech Catherine Paterson said: ‘This is exactly what John would have wanted: to not have his art be the thing that he is known for, but for the humanity and compassion that he and I shared together. I do wish he was here.’
Dochas staff member Wanida McEwan said: ‘I was so glad to see a lot of people turning up: councillors, carers, trustees, staff, volunteers, working partners and many groups of local people who have been supporting our centre all these years. It meant a lot to all of us.’
I have been working at the Dochas Centre since March 2012. It’s the happiest place I ever worked. Everyone is so kind and, of course, have a good understanding of a carer’s life. I’m also a carer. All these years, I have been given useful advice, information and support from the centre for my caring role. I always feel reassured having someone to talk to and help me as a carer. Dochas is a special place for me.’
Councillor Anne Horn was visiting the celebrations and said: ‘The Dochas Centre has and still provides so much support and caring space for unpaid carers, bringing hope and guidance to others who travel the carers’ journey.’
‘Our ongoing thanks go to Catherine Paterson and the staff at Dochas for the valued and much-loved service they provide. I was privileged to attend with the great number of people who turned out on Thursday to celebrate 21 years of Dochas.’
Councillor Dougie Philand said: ‘The Dochas Centre has flourished to become a vital service to many carers and beyond. I was delighted to be present at the marking of its 21st year and it was no surprise the event was well-attended.
‘The centre is embedded into our community and long may everyone support such a vital centre.’