“Childhood Dream” Complete for 106-Year-Old Resident at Penarth Home as Part of Seize the Day Initiative

A 106-year-old resident living at a Penarth home was able to fulfill her childhood dream thanks to an initiative encouraged by Methodist Homes (MHA).

Florence Betts (106) lives at MHA Morel Court and was able to fulfill her childhood dream of meeting a St Bernard dog.

Following an activity on pets, care assistant Shanelle O’Mahoney asked Florence what pet she would have liked to have owned, and Florence mentioned having a St Bernard was a “childhood dream” for her and would like to meet one in real life.

The Seize the Day initiative encourages residents to re-experience activities or events from the past or to do something they would like to do for the first time.

Mandy Jenkins the admin manager at the home then contacted the St Bernards Trust, a national charity which enables rescue and rehoming of previously unwanted, often neglected and abandoned St Bernards.

The trust managed to locate the owner of Winter, who was around 67 miles away from the home, and made the trip to see Florence and the rest of the residents.

Speaking on the visit Mandy said: “Florence was over the moon when we told her what was arranged for her.

“Winter was at the home for just over an hour and spent time with Florence and other residents in the lounge.

“She was accompanied by her two owners and was a very well-behaved dog.

“We want to thank the owners of Winter for making the trip to the home and playing their part in making Florence very happy.

“Florence was very pleased to have this wish fulfilled and enjoyed meeting her.

“She asked many questions she had about the breed and was taken aback by their kindness in coming all the way to make her wish come true.”