May we never forget!
At the time of writing, we have just commemorated another Armistice Day, this year the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Most people will have heard of Harry Billinge, who was a Sapper in the Royal Engineers. He has become quite a celebrity.
However, this humble man is one of the few left alive who can recall the D-Day landing and at the age of 93, still manages to get us to shed a tear. Harry has raised £22,442 for a memorial at Gold Beach (£1 for every soldier who perished). On Breakfast TV he said ‘I had a job to do for these wonderful young men. I am not the hero they are. It is marvellous to see what had been created’.
Three cheers for the Nonagenarians!
As recently as 5 years ago most of the people we cared for were in their 70s and 80s. Now well over 50% are in their 90s. What an amazing group of individuals they all are. Fiercely independent in mind if not in body. Comments like, “If I can survive the war, I can survive old age!” Well, certainly Harry is doing more than surviving. Sadly, fragility does take over and we must ensure that this special generation can remain as independent as possible until the end of their days.
However, trying to persuade them that having some help or support in the home would be a good idea, is a very difficult task. I try to reassure them that nobody will take away your independence. Try to think of it as an extra pair of hands enabling you to carry on living your life your way. Someone to cook nice food, someone to keep the house tidy, someone to take you out into the community.
We don’t want to wrap them up in cotton wool but show them that the younger generation cares about them and are hugely grateful for their sacrifice. I find it a privilege that we are looking after so many of these special people. Well done!
Fix Dementia Care
“People affected by dementia typically spend £100,000 on their own care due to a system that is unfair, unsustainable and in need of an urgent overhaul.”
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“I wish all our clients whatever their age a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.”
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Normandy Memorial Trust
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