A birthday celebration at Astley View Care Home in Chorley became something truly special after the team arranged a surprise that reflected one resident’s lifelong love of motorcycles.
Knowing how much motorbikes had meant to the resident over the years, the team organised for a friend to arrive at the home on his beautifully restored 1973 Norton. What followed was an afternoon spent talking about favourite bikes, memorable journeys and the experiences that had shaped a lifelong passion.
The owner shared the history of the Norton and stories from his travels, while the resident reflected on the motorcycles he had owned and the places they had taken him. Before long, other residents, relatives and colleagues had gathered to admire the classic bike and enjoy listening to the conversation.
Christina Durnan, Home Manager at Astley View Care Home, said:
“We always want birthdays to be personal and reflect the things that mean the most to each resident. We knew how much motorcycles had meant to this resident throughout his life, so arranging this surprise felt like the perfect way to celebrate his birthday. Seeing how much he enjoyed the afternoon, talking about the bikes he had owned and sharing his stories with everyone around him, made all the planning worthwhile.”
For the team at Astley View, getting to know each resident is about much more than understanding their care needs. The team spends time to learn what has brought happiness throughout the residents’ lives and finds ways to continue celebrating those interests. Sometimes that means arranging a favourite meal or inviting family to join a special occasion. Other times, it means bringing a classic motorcycle to the home for an unforgettable birthday.
Visitors can experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Astley View during the home’s Summer Fair on Saturday 8 August, from 1.30pm to 4pm, at Berry Way, Chorley PR7 6RA.
The free event will feature live entertainment, stalls, refreshments and family activities, alongside the opportunity to meet the team, look around the home and find out more about the residential, dementia, respite and end of life care available at Astley View.
