Staff at Tallington Lodge Care Home, nestled in the pretty village of Tallington near Stamford, Lincolnshire, pulled off a heartwarming surprise for one very special resident, Ann-Marie, as part of the home’s Make a Wish initiative.
The Make a Wish initiative at Tallington Lodge Care Home, part of the Country Court group, is dedicated to creating memorable experiences for residents. From boat trips and book launches to off-road driving and family tea parties, this program is a vital aspect of the Tallington Lodge person-centred care approach. Staff take the time to understand each resident's unique hobbies and interests, tailoring activities to match their individual preferences.
Jackie, a Wellbeing Coordinator at Tallington Lodge, said:
“This special wish was all about reuniting Ann-Marie with her best friend of 35 years, Margaret, after many years apart. They’ve shared so many memories over the decades, and this heartfelt reunion brought them back together for the first time in a long time. It was a truly emotional and joyful moment for everyone involved. With the help of colleagues across the Country Court group – including our amazing minibus drivers - we were able to arrange the surprise visit and make Ann-Marie’s wish come true.
Ann-Marie and Margaret met over 35 years ago and have been best friends ever since. They first met through their mutual love of bingo and quickly realised how much they had in common. Both originally from Ireland, they moved to Lincoln separately and later became neighbours. Their friendship began one Thursday evening at a bingo night at the Brant Road social club and blossomed from there. From gardening and walks to their regular bingo evenings, they became inseparable over the years.”
The Tallington Lodge minibus made a special trip to collect Margaret, long-time friend of resident Ann-Marie, for a surprise reunion. Margaret welcomed the wellbeing team into her home, showing them around and sharing memories of her friendship with Ann-Marie. Then it was time to travel to Tallington Lodge, where Ann-Marie had no idea what was planned.
Margaret waited in the home’s coffee shop while staff brought Ann-Marie in. The moment the two friends saw each other, it was emotional—tears, smiles, and a warm embrace after time apart.
They spent the day enjoying each other’s company, chatting over coffee and exchanging thoughtful gifts. A freshly prepared lunch was served at a table decorated with pink flowers, followed by afternoon tea. The team added a personal touch with a bingo-themed cake topper and a ‘Pinky promise’ cake topper, reflecting the pair’s shared interests and long-standing friendship.
When it was time to say goodbye, there were more hugs and a few tears. Margaret took the bingo cake topper home with her and later shared that she brought it to her next bingo night, where she won £120!
Natalie White, the Home Manager, commented:
“We were so pleased to make this wish happen for Ann-Marie. It was wonderful to see her reconnect with Margaret in person. It meant a lot to them both, and we hope to arrange another visit in the future.”
For more information about life at Tallington Lodge Care Home, please contact Natalie White, Home Manager, on 01780 740 314 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com.
