Grandson brightens up Kath’s day from Down Under
A Burntwood grandmother, who has been feeling down due to not being able to see her family during the lockdown, had her spirits lifted when a carer arranged a surprise video call from her beloved grandson in Australia.
Kath, 89, receives personal care and companionship from Home Instead in Cannock, and when owner Frances Sayer was informed of her low morale she decided to organise the call to cheer her up.
On the day of the surprise, senior caregiver Jo Watts visited Kath for her organised care visit.
“When Kath heard her grandson, Tom, say hello she was so emotional,” said Jo.
“Although, the first thing she said to him was ‘you look scruffy!’ and then asked why he was drinking beer at breakfast time.
“Tom explained it was eight hours later there and then took Kath on a lovely tour of his home and to the garden where he showed her the grape vines and passion fruit trees he has growing on his land in Australia.
“They had a lovely chat and Kath was very animated when she told Tom how much she loved him.
“We all got very emotional. I absolutely love moments like this where we can support clients to do something heart-warming that they wouldn't normally be able to do.”
Following the call, Kath’s grandson, Tom, said to Jo: “Brilliant, honestly thank you so much for setting up the call.
“It meant the absolute world to me. Thank you for everything you do, really you're amazing.”
Kath’s daughter, Christine, added: “Thank you for giving my mum the opportunity to see and speak to Tom in his new home; it really made her day.
“Hopefully she’ll be able to do it again in the future. A huge thank you to everyone for their part in helping and caring for mum.”
Frances believes that as more people across the generations embrace technology, it will remain an important part of their lives once the pandemic is over.
“While technology will never replace the human touch, it does have the ability to enhance people’s lives,” she said.
“Many of our caregivers have enjoyed teaching their clients how to use Facetime and WhatsApp, and the feedback from our clients’ family members has been really positive.”
By Andy Kerr
