Together Again: a love story of resilience at Trent Bridge Care Home

Moving into a care home was a huge decision for both John and Chris, as they had always been fiercely independent.  During their 64 years of marriage, they both enjoyed travelling and exploring the world together and especially loved Asia; travelling to remote places and experiencing different cultures was a huge part of who they are as a couple.  John and Chris were such a busy but committed couple who raised a family together, as well as both having demanding jobs in education.

As the years advanced, John’s health deteriorated, and Chris took on the role as his main carer and she took such pride in ‘looking after’ John.  Sadly, Chris’ own health deteriorated and when it was time for them to come into a safe, caring environment, they both chose to live at Trent Bridge Care Home, so they could both be ‘looked after’ for a change.

Adapting to a new way of life was easy for John and Chris, as long as they were doing it together.  After a short illness, John’s health took a turn for the worse and he was admitted to hospital for several weeks.  This was a difficult time for both John and Chris, as they were not used to being apart for any length of time and especially with the uncertainty of poor health.  To support the couple, the care team ensured that John and Chris had regular telephone contact and arranged frequent visits for Chris to see John throughout his stay in hospital.  This gave Chris the much-needed reassurance that John was being cared for and it also gave John the reassurances that Chris was safe and well.

When Chris finally got the news that John was well enough to come home, she was over the moon and she had her hair and nails done, especially for the occasion!  John and Chris were finally reunited after 3 long weeks of being separation and uncertainty.  There was lots of hugs, kisses, smiles and tears of joy from John and Chris, as well as the care team!

John and Chris continue to live their best lives happily together, and according to John, the secret of a happy marriage is ‘never go to bed on an argument