A man who was unable to travel to his grandson’s wedding was given a day to remember thanks to the care home where he lives.
Wallace Leventhal, 87, who lives at Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House, could not attend his grandson Hayden’s wedding in Cheshire.
When his daughter Kim mentioned this to social care coordinator Jacklin Stephenson, staff immediately set about planning something special to bring the celebration to him.
This involved recreating the wedding at the care home in Gants Hill.
Jacklin said: "For me, it was fantastic that he was able to join the wedding via Zoom.
"But to recreate the wedding here was fabulous, so I was thrilled.
"For many of our residents who haven’t seen or been to a wedding recently, it was such a joy.
"Moments like these encourage them to reminisce on happy times from their own lives, and that’s exactly what we’re here for, to improve the lives of our residents and to enhance their wellbeing."
The care home team transformed part of the home into a wedding venue, complete with a chuppah (Jewish wedding canopy), balloons, flowers and refreshments.
Staff and residents dressed up for the occasion, and a full mock ceremony was held so Wallace could share in the joy of his grandson’s big day.
The bride, Jemma, said: "I thought it was such a lovely idea to recreate our wedding for Wallace.
"It meant so much for Hayden and me to be able to celebrate our wedding with him.
"Having the mock wedding with him was so special."
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Jemma’s parents, Amanda and Paul Becker, travelled from Manchester to attend the celebration.
Wallace was visibly moved by the day.
He said: "It was excellent, I found it very moving.
"Everything went very well, and the staff were very kind.
"There was a first-class atmosphere.
"Family means a lot, and I’m pleased that I live in a home where the staff care so much.
"I think that I’m very fortunate."
After the ceremony, guests enjoyed afternoon tea in the sunshine, surrounded by family, friends and fellow residents.
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