Kind-hearted volunteer brings a smile to Zetland Court resident’s face

Above: Volunteer David Craner and resident Maggie Fredericks enjoy a glass of sparkling apple juice at Red Admiral View, Zetland Court’s dementia house.  

Resident Maggie Fredericks lives at Zetland Court, just a stone’s throw away from Bournemouth’s sandy beaches. She regularly enjoys the company of her loved ones and the volunteers that frequently visit the care home.

One of those volunteers is David Craner, who comes twice a week to chat with the residents and help tend to the courtyard garden for residents and their families to enjoy. David explains:

When I heard they were looking for volunteers, I felt I had to apply. I contacted the Deputy Home Manager and then I was invited for an induction.

I live alone, so spending time with the residents and the lovely staff is most inspiring for me.

Only last week, David was keeping Maggie company. When lunch was ready, Maggie asked him to stay so they could enjoy a meal together. Unfortunately, David had other plans. Before he left, he said:

I’m afraid I have other commitments today, but I’ll come back on Friday to be with you!

Maggie looked forward to having him over and waited for his return. Finally, when Friday came, so did David. Zetland Court’s staff had already set up a table in the café lounge for them and included a bottle of sparking apple juice. David says:

I was directed into the café lounge area and there was Maggie, dressed up to the nines, looking all proud.

The staff had organised a meal for the two of us! I felt most emotional at this act of kindness.

Maggie finally had her long-awaited lunch with David, and they spent long hours chatting and enjoying each other’s company.

[Summary: Resident Maggie Fredericks, who lives at Zetland Court, in Bournemouth, asked volunteer David Craner to stay for lunch. He couldn’t stay because he had other commitments, but he promised to keep her company a few days later. When he returned, the Home’s staff set up a table for them to enjoy a meal together.]