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At Holmer Court Care Home, we recently had the privilege of making one of our cherished resident’s dreams come true through the Ashberry Wishing Tree initiative. This special programme is all about celebrating the hopes and memories of our residents, no matter how big or small - and for Alex, her Ashberry Wish was a truly meaningful journey back in time.
Alexandra, who is living with late-stage dementia, was born and raised in Wales, and her wish was to return to the place she once called home. So, with the help of Holmer Court’s dedicated wellbeing coordinators, Becky and Sue, Alex set off on a dementia-friendly day trip to Cardiff and the nearby village of Tongwynlais - close to Caerphilly, the very town she grew up.
From the moment they crossed into Wales, Alex’s excitement was palpable. Despite the challenges of late-stage dementia, her connection to the land of her childhood sparked something remarkable. She began reading the Welsh road signs aloud and recognising familiar sights with incredible clarity. One particularly moving moment occurred at Castell Coch, a fairytale-like castle nestled in the woods near Tongwynlais. Because the castle has remained largely unchanged since Alex’s youth, she was able to recognise it instantly - a powerful demonstration of preserved long-term memory and emotional connection.
The trio also stopped off at a quaint, rustic coffee shop, where Alex enjoyed a warm drink and time to reminisce. As she sat among the trees, she began naming them, appearing calm and engaged in the moment. Alex spent her early years on her grandfather's Welsh farm, where she helped her father deliver milk across the hills - a formative part of her childhood that shaped her deep connection to the countryside.
"Mum grew up in Caerphilly and spent much of her childhood on the family farm next to Castell Coch. As a young girl she would sit alongside her Grandmother in the horse and cart taking milk down the hill to the village. She used the woods around the castle like a playground with her younger sister and her cousins. Whilst these have been distant memories for many years in recent times and since Mum’s dementia has progressed she spends a lot of her time talking about these times. The fact that Holmer Court have enabled her to physically return to her childhood haunts is absolutely incredible. This will have meant the absolute world to my mum and have refreshed so many beautiful memories for her. I can not thank the staff at Holmer Court enough for what they have done and continue to do for my Mum."
- Rachel, Alex's daughter
This beautiful day was not just a treat -it was a moment of reconnection, grounding Alex in a sense of self and history that dementia can often obscure. It’s moments like these that highlight the true power of personalised dementia care and the importance of understanding our residents' life stories.
Alex’s journey also tied in with one of Ashberry Healthcare’s innovative therapies: the Audio Photo Albums project, introduced by Megan Williams, Team Leader at Broomy Hill Nursing Home. These albums use a combination of visual imagery and personalised soundtracks to create a rich reminiscence therapy experience. One of Alex’s albums features Castell Coch, making her visit all the more poignant. Revisiting a place she could see in her album added a powerful layer of emotion and memory to her day.
"I have had the honour of listening to many fascinating stories from our residents about their life histories. Listening to Alex speak so animatedly about her love for Cardiff, the mountains and the places she has lived, we felt it would be truly special to add to her memories and be part of that journey. We had a lovely day and really enjoyed hearing Alex’s stories and seeing her joy at being back on home soil. We look forward to granting many more wishes. It is a real honour to be part of our residents’ history, just as they are part of our lives every day. We are one big family - and families create memories together."
- Becky, Wellbeing Lead
"Alex is a quiet but cherished member of the Holmer Court family. Though reserved, she takes everything in - and when engaged, loves to reminisce. One of her fondest memories is of Cardiff, a place she never thought she’d visit again. Thanks to the wellbeing team, Becky and Sue, her wish was granted. The journey itself sparked joyful memories and heartfelt conversations. The Wishing Tree has brought so much happiness to our residents, showing that dreams really can come true. Many wishes have already been granted, and the jar continues to fill with more every day."
– Claire Boulter, Home Manager
Granting Alex’s Ashberry Wish was more than a day trip - it was a journey into the heart of who she is. We’re proud that Ashberry Healthcare not only listens to its residents but actively brings their dreams to life through compassionate, personalised care.
For more about life at Holmer Court, visit our website here, or to learn how you can get involved with our Wishing Tree, please contact enquiries@ashberry.net
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