Meaningful memories at Millfield: William and John form a friendship like no other

In January 2024, William joined the amazing Millfield Nursing Home and met John, who had already been living there for around 6 months. As soon as the two gentlemen got chatting it was clear that this was going to blossom into a beautiful brotherhood. Over the past year and a half, the pair have made memories that will last a lifetime and we couldn’t wait to ask them more about it.

Something which has really bonded William and John is their shared love for gardening, especially during these warmer months. Activities Coordinator Lucy told us: “John and William both help with gardening. William has been growing some rhubarb and strawberries that the kitchen uses to make crumbles. Meanwhile, John breaks up bread and puts it on the bird table so they can eat the bread.” - What a duo!

When they’re not gardening, Lucy has also noticed their common love for music and live entertainment. They’ve also been on special trips together; they both loved their recent adventure to Crich Tramway Village.

“I think friendships like this are really important between the residents as they have someone to talk to about things they can relate to, and we all need a good chatter every now and then.”

William and John actually went to the same school growing up and mingled in similar circles, which was a nice surprise for them both once they got chatting. William said: “We talk about our childhood memories because of people we knew and things we remember doing.”

“If there are things I’ve forgotten, John helps me to remember things from our childhood and put the pieces together. He’s a great friend like that” he added.

John also cherishes his friendship with William and respects him a lot. He told us: “Having each other’s back and looking after each other is a good quality in a friend, and William looks after me.”

“I still remember my first impression of William when he moved in to Millfield, I thought he was really friendly and chatty. We’ve been chatting ever since.”

William and John are both very wise when it comes to friendships and treating each other with respect. William said if he had a piece of advice for the younger generation, it would be to treat each other as you wish to be treated. He said there will be times when you disagree, but the friendship is always more important in the end.

When asked what their favourite activity is that they’ve done together, John said: “We’ve done lots of things together, but it was really fun when we went to the pub in Bolsover!”

Lucy told us: “John likes going out a lot with his family and William often joins them too which they both really enjoy. They’ve formed a real brotherly bond and see each other not only as friends, but as family.”

Thank you to William and John for sharing their beautiful story of a friendship which has flourished into a very magical connection. A huge thank you to Lucy and the Millfield team too, for empowering their connection and planning activities and days out which the pair can truly enjoy. If you’d like to find out more about the brilliant Millfield Nursing Home, take a look here or call the home on 01246 825959.