Following the success of our Win a Wish prizes celebrating our 25th anniversary, Catholic Healthcare has introduced My Wish.
My Wish is a new program granting 10 residents, who are living in one of our Aged Care Homes, their special wish. It’s about promoting life to its full at any age, rewarding our residents and giving them the opportunity to enjoy an extraordinary experience.
The first My Wish has been granted to McQuoin Park Aged Care resident, Bob, who enjoyed a heart-felt visit to the Mounted Police Stables in Redfern with his wife, Carol, and son, Bruce.
Bob was a Mounted Policeman in the 1960s, and a detective for many years until his retirement from the NSW Police. Bob then moved to northern NSW with his family where he also ran Riding for the Disabled on the beach at Lennox Head.
Bob’s passion for horses and fondness for his time with the Mounted Police never left him so his wish was to re-visit the Stables. Bob’s father was also in the Mounted Police so it is a place which holds many treasured family memories.
Chief Inspector Chris Stiles, Commander of the Mounted Police Unit, welcomed Bob and his family. They reminisced over Bob’s time with the Mounted Police. Chris even had a photo of Bob and his colleagues in uniform. Bob could remember all his old mates and the times they had on and off duty. The Chief Inspector gifted Bob with the photo plus his own Mounted Police Unit pin.
Senior Constable Jackson then took Bob and his family on a tour of the Museum and Stables including the new menage. Bob was delighted watching the horses being put through their exercises and particularly impressed with the equestrian skills of the riders. A visit to the Stables was the next highlight where Bob was able to pat each horse, learn about their temperaments and give them a feed.
“I never thought I would be here again,” said Bob. “It has been very special to meet the Chief Inspector and see all the wonderful horses.”
McQuoin Park’s Recreational Activities Officer, Karen Sykes, who accompanied Bob added; “Today’s visit has made Bob feel valued and in touch with what he was in his life, and how being a member of the Mounted Police was such a special time. This experience will stay with him forever.”
Bob’s wish was completed with a delicious lunch organised for his family at a nearby restaurant courtesy of Catholic Healthcare.
Pictured top left: Bob on patrol as a Mounted Policeman in Sydney
Pictured bottom left: Chief Inspector Chris Stiles welcomes Bob back to the stables with his wife Carol and son Bruce
Pictured right: Bob enjoying the horses with tour guide Senior Constable Jackson and McQuoin Park Recreational Activities Officer, Karen
To find out more about McQuoin Park Residential Aged Care visit the McQuoin Park page on our website.