Great celebration ignites memories

A sense of inclusiveness, normalcy and joy was evident at RSL LifeCare’s Patrick Bugden VC Gardens recently with a magnificent Christmas celebration.

The special event was attended by residents, families, staff and volunteers at the RSL LifeCare village in the Byron Shire.

This kind of event made residents feel included and still part of society

During the event, wandering minstrels serenaded the guests while a benevolent Santa delivered presents to residents on both sides of the naughty-nice divide!

Patrick Bugden’s Toni Ryan said the afternoon included a delicious lunch.

“You’re still here, still with us, and we are still celebrating life together.”

– Toni Ryan

“Christmas dinner was prepared with love by our dedicated kitchen staff,” she said. “It was well received.

“It was heartwarming to see and hear how much it was all enjoyed by residents and families alike.”

She said this kind of event made residents feel included and still part of society.

“You can definitely see it in their faces,” she said. “They’re part of the festivities and recognise things which they’ve always celebrated.”

She said it was a pleasure to see residents with loved ones, sharing memories, and feeding off the joy from each another.

“For loved ones it’s that sense of normalcy,” she said.

“You’re still here, still with us, and we are still celebrating life together.”

Story by Rod Bennett