When Beryl requested a party to celebrate her 80 years around the sun, Department of Communities’ staff at Cunningham Group Home made it happen. Supervisor Sarah arranged to host an afternoon tea at the house where up to five people with disability reside, and are supported to have active, social lives. Meanwhile, social trainers Linda, John and Dena put their ‘party planner hats’ on.
The guest list included past and present housemates and their families, as well as Beryl’s family members she had lost touch with for many years.
Described as a “spritely young 80”, Beryl had a wish list for her support team who organised a playlist and sourced a Dolly Varden cake – a real doll wearing a gown of butter cream rosettes.
Beryl was also taken out for some pampering by Linda and John, which included a haircut and shopping for new dresses. With great sensitivity, she was also supported by John to gather a lifetime of photos for a memory board.
Beryl’s family setup the backyard marquee and decorated the entire area with balloons in silver, black and gold, before around 30 guests were welcomed to the party by the hosts – Sarah, Linda and Dena.
Beryl is one of 10 children, and a touching moment came when a brother she had lost touch with arrived. The two held hands for much of the celebration and were the centrepiece of a group family photo, the first taken for many years.
Beryl’s best friend had moved to higher needs care a few months prior. Thanks to some coordination by Communities’ Sarah and AbilityWA staff she was able to attend.
Supervisor Sarah praised the team for offering Beryl choices and involving her with the planning at every stage.
“Their efforts brought Beryl’s extended family together for the first time, in a long time,” Sarah said.
Beryl is now living with her best friend at the same higher needs residence. Linda has visited her to check in, and still thinks of Beryl when she passes her old room at the Cunningham house.
Linda reminisced about the party, “Everyone had a beautiful day and stayed for a good few hours. The weather was perfect and seeing Beryl so happy was pure magic.”
Straight from the heart, Linda finished with, “I love this job. I’ve always loved this job.”
Communities’ Specialised Care and Accommodation staff support individuals with an intellectual disability to live their lives as independently as possible, and to make their dreams and goals come true.
