Care home helps 91-year-old see granddaughter marry

A care home resident from Essex could not be at her granddaughter’s wedding because of current government restrictions but coronavirus was not going to stop 91-year-old Dot Bash, being there and celebrating.

Peter Bash, Ms Bash’s son, and staff at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Stisted, brought the wedding to the care home where Ms Bash could watch it being live-streamed from All Saints Church nearby.

Ms Bash watched the wedding in the lounge with her fellow residents on the home’s huge, cinema-style screen.

Residents and staff at the home dressed up in their best wedding attire for the midday service, just as they would if they were there in person to see groom Tom Law marry Dot’s granddaughter Kathryn.

To create a wedding atmosphere, there were fresh flower decorations, and a tea party was held after the service. Everyone was invited to drink a toast to the happy couple. The bride’s father had even delivered a case of wine to the home for everyone to enjoy.

Home manager Aggie McDonald said: “We couldn’t bear the thought of Dot not being able to see her granddaughter getting married in real-time.

“They’re such a close family, for her to miss it would have been heart-breaking. We were determined to make it special for her and it was lovely that our other residents were also able to enjoy such an uplifting event.”

The cake was made by the home’s chef and the bride and groom made a special diversion after their wedding to come and cut the cake at the care home where Ms Bash resides.

Ms McDonald said: “I got in touch with Kathryn’s father Peter and asked him if it would be possible for Tom and Kathryn to come across after they get married to cut the cake in front of the residents. We had special glass put in so Dot could see what was happening.”

Mrs Law was also able to visit her Nana in the home’s COVID-secure visitor pod the day before the wedding.

Mrs Kathryn Law, who now lives in the Cotswold’s, said: “I'm absolutely thrilled that my Nana and her fellow residents could join in my wedding. It added an extra exciting dimension to the whole day and lasting memories to treasure.

“It’s lovely that the home is doing so much. They’re having a three-course meal and canapes! In fact, they’re probably doing more than we are.”

Ms Bash said: “I’m so grateful the home was able to make this happen, so I could see my grand-daughter getting married!”

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