Amberley Hall Care Home in Kings Lynn witnessed a heartwarming moment this week as one of its residents, Susan Fisher, 70, had a dream fulfilled.
Susan, who has always adored penguins, was granted a special wish to not only see but meet these charming creatures up close, as part of Amberley Hall’s “Making Moments” campaign.
Athena Care Homes, the parent company of Amberley Hall, is currently celebrating its 10th anniversary. As part of the festivities, the “Making Moments” initiative was launched to make residents’ dreams come true, and Susan’s penguin wish was at the top of the list. Susan, who has been residing at Amberley Hall since last March, never thought her dream would actually be realised.
“I have always loved penguins,” said Susan. “I’m sure I must have seen them at the zoo when I was a girl, but to meet them like this has been amazing. I put my wish on the wish tree, but I never thought it would come true.”
To grant her wish, two adorable Humboldt penguins, Pringle and Widget, were brought to Amberley Hall from Heythrop Zoo. The playful pair toured the care home, making sure even residents unable to leave their rooms had a chance to experience the joy. Their visit brought smiles and excitement not only to Susan but to all the residents and the team at the home.
Susan’s husband, Graham, who regularly visits her at Amberley Hall, shared the joy of the occasion, noting, “This was a wonderful day for Susan. It’s something I know we’ll talk about for ages.”
The penguin visit was part of a full day of celebrations at Amberley Hall – which was the first care home in the Athena family back in 2014. Residents also enjoyed a visit from an ice cream van dishing out delicious treats and an afternoon filled with entertainment, a party tea, and a special birthday cake to commemorate the care home’s 10-year milestone.
Nicky, a receptionist at Amberley Hall with a penguin tattoo, was also overjoyed to meet one of her favourite animals, as were many members of the team who work at Amberley Hall.
For Susan, the chance to meet penguins fulfilled her wish, turning a simple request on the home’s “wish tree” into a day she and her fellow residents will never forget. Amberley Hall’s commitment to making moments and dreams come true, even in the smallest ways, showcases the care and love provided to all who call it home.
As Athena Care Homes celebrates a decade of care, the joy shared during this special penguin-filled day is a reminder of the power of small wishes and the happiness they bring.
