Best wishes from wee Daniel cheer up group
THE residents of a care support service in Drogheda got the shock of their lives recently, when their singing idol sent them a special message during this difficult time.
The Donegal legend Daniel O’Donnell sent his love and best wishes to Alan, Bernadette, Breda and Monica, who are all in the care of the Drogheda ReHab Group, and it made their week, nevermind their day! “They are all huge fans and are absolutely delighted with themselves,” says Team Leader Julie Myles. “It has been particularly hard for the residents at the moment, as they can’t go on any trips or see other people, so this special message from Daniel really cheered them up.”
The video was the brainchild of Service Manager Charlene Spencer, who has been trying to think of novel ways to keep everyone happy and occupied during the period of lockdown.
“They are normally so active and there re is only so much arts and crafts that you can do, so Charlene sent out some emails explaining the situation, and we couldn’t believe the response we got,” adds Julie. “Not only did Daniel send us a message for the house in Drogheda and Dundalk, but Rob Kearney said hello to one of our Dundalk residents, who is a massive rugby fan, and they were thrilled.”
ReHab Group is a support service for people with intellectual difficulties, and they aim to provide the residents with the skills to help with independent living.
There are four residents in Drogheda, ranging from 55 to 82, and they attend centres in Ardee and Fair Street, Drogheda.
“Our staff is working so hard at the moment, as they normally would start working with the residents at around 4pm, but now they are on call round the clock,” she explains. “It is tough going for all, and as healthcare workers we are considered frontline staff, and there is a lot of pressure on everyone.”
Along with Julie and Charlene, the team is Attracta Burns, Caroline Marron, Lisa McAuley, Edel Fahey, Jacqueline Gill, Abi Onatola, Michelle Duffy, Rosemary Martin, Anne Hesseman and Declan Lynch.
ReHab Group is primarily a charity which receives funding from the HSE. “We also want to say a huge everyone else who has helped us through this difficult time, and we look forward to getting back to normal as soon as possible,” she adds. “When people say I’m bored, and they are fed up doing their garden, I say I’d love even a day to potter, as there is just so much to do!”