Resident’s son pens heartfelt poem for Wantage “heroes”

Ian Stockbridge wanted to express his gratitude for the wonderful care his father John receives at Wantage Residential and Nursing Home in Oxfordshire, where he has lived for over a year. 

Wanting to do something a bit out of the ordinary, Ian put pen to paper, with many of the staff taking starring roles in his thankful verse, including: 

‘Andrei and Jo, a managerial dream, guiding a team like a well oiled machine’ 
Activities coordinator ‘Vicky, the entertainer, a virtuoso delight, strumming chords that make spirits take flight'

Head chef ‘culinary queen’ Monica ‘Aromas wafting, a symphony in her wake, feeding hearts and souls, no recipe’s fake’ 

A touching final extract from the poem reads:  
‘In Wantage’s haven this team so divine,   
‘Crafts a home where joy and laughter entwine. 
‘Sanctuary, a place of warmth and cheer, 
‘Led by these heroes, it’s crystal clear.’ 

Ian explains: “I say thank you on a regular basis, but it felt a little bit more special to put something in writing.” 

Ian’s father John, who celebrated his 100th birthday at the home in December, moved into Wantage because he was struggling at home. 

“I come to see him here every day and the staff make such a fuss of him, they take their time with him and it feels like they are people who really care,” Ian adds. 

Home manager Andrei Joanta explained how touched the team were by Ian’s words. “We hear so many words of thanks from our wonderful residents and their loved ones for the care we provide and our passion for enriching lives. But to read such a heartfelt poem describing us as ‘heroes’ is something we will treasure forever.” 

For more about how the team are enriching lives at Wantage, and our other care homes in Oxfordshire, our Enquiry Support Team are here to talk on freephone 0800 331 7422.