Matthew celebrates goal-den 50th birthday
A care home resident from Scotland celebrated his 50th birthday by fulfilling his lifelong dream to visit Aberdeen Football Club.
Matthew Watt, who lives at our Birch House Care Home in Aberdeenshire, ventured to the home of The Dons as he marked the significant milestone.
The experience was organised by the not-for-profit home in Peterculter, which provides care for eight residents, ranging in age from 27 to 88, with complex learning disabilities.
The football fan's birthday festivities began with a trip to the Scottish professional football club, where he watched The Dons emerge victorious, winning 2 – 1 against rivals, Ross County Football Club.
Matthew, who has lived at Birch House Care Home for 16 years, not only got to soak up the atmosphere at the match, but also received a half-time shout-out, along with a very special mention on the team’s social media channels.
Matthew was even surprised with a birthday card signed by the players in the Scottish Premiership team.
Patricia Hutchinson, Care Home Manager at Birch House, commented: “We were thrilled to make Matthew’s dream of visiting the home of his favourite team, ‘The Dons’ come true. With only eight residents, our team feels more like a family and like any family, we do everything we can to make our residents smile.
“Matthew’s milestone birthday celebrations were organised as part of our ‘Birch Dream Bubble Initiative’ which seeks to help our residents achieve their aspirations. Making these dreams come true creates a sense of purpose and achievement for our residents, which we know is so important for an enriched and fulfilled life.”
Reflecting on his special day, Matthew said: “I felt happy and excited. The best part of the day was when they shouted my name out at half time and gave me a birthday card from all the team. I am very thankful to the team at Birch House who planned this for me.”
For more about life at Sanctuary Care our Enquiry Support Team is here to talk on 0800 331 7422.
