Henry was born on October 20th 1923, in Mauritius. One of his fondest memories is sailing with his parents on a three-masted ship to the islands of Diego Garcia and Rodrigues, where his father worked as a nurse. Henry believes this experience first sparked his lifelong interest in caring for others.
In his younger years, Henry was passionate about running, pole vaulting, and football. During his early teaching career, he also discovered a love for poetry and writing and eventually earned a national poetry prize presented to him by the President of France.
Henry went on to have an exciting career, and one of his proudest moments was reporting on the 1966 World Cup alongside football legend Danny Blanchflower.
To mark Henry’s birthday, his family travelled from across Europe to celebrate with him at Oakview Lodge Care & Nursing Home.
“When his daughter brought him to our Hatfield Arms Pub, all the family stood and applauded,” said Wellbeing Coordinator Rachel Davies.
Moved by the moment, Henry gave a short speech in French to thank his loved ones before raising a glass of Prosecco to toast his good health and happiness.
“The family sang a hymn Henry remembered from his childhood in Mauritius, and a particularly touching moment was when his two-year-old great-granddaughter patted a balloon towards him,” shared Customer Relations Manager Julia Rodell.
“We were honoured to celebrate this incredible milestone with Henry and his family,” added Home Manager Rosa-Maria Gaiteri.
For more information about life at Oakview Lodge Care & Nursing Home, please call 01707 375 345 or email oakviewlodge@countrycourtcare.com
