Wendy’s heart-warming nursing home experience

For 70 years, William and Doris Allison shared a lifetime of happiness and joy together in their beloved hometown of Warrington, before William’s sad passing in April. Their daughter, Wendy, spoke to Orchard Care Homes about the incredible support received after her father’s passing, and why she’s proud to be part of the Three Bridges Nursing Home team.

Meeting in their late teens, Doris and William Allison tied the knot in 1955 and raised four children together, including Three Bridges’ very own Administrator, Wendy.  “My siblings and I had a truly magical childhood! Mum and dad were a great team and the most loving parents – I’m very lucky to have such a wonderful and supportive family.”

As Doris and William grew older, the decision was made for the lovebirds to move to a nursing home, but they wanted to find a home with a double room, instead of being separated. After 70 years together, their children felt it was important for them to remain as close as possible. “We wanted our parents to stay living as husband and wife – even if it’s in a slightly different environment” said Wendy. “However, this unfortunately meant our options were limited, and our parents eventually had to move to a nursing home in Rossendale, which is almost an hour’s drive away.”

William and Doris had always lived in Warrington, so moving out of the town was a big change. Wendy and her siblings knew that finding a local nursing home in Warrington was a top priority, so they always kept a lookout for nearby homes that could offer the right level of care for their parents. Luckily, Wendy knew just the place!

“I joined Three Bridges Nursing Home in April 2023, after a long career in Early Years. When I joined as Administrator, I could see first-hand the incredible work being done: people were happy, smiling and were well looked after. I knew this is exactly where my parents should be!”

In March 2024, Doris and William finally managed to move back to their hometown of Warrington after a double bedroom became available at Three Bridges. The news came as a welcome surprise to the Allison family. “Although Dad got used to living in the home in Rossendale, he always asked to come ‘home’ to Warrington – so as soon as the opportunity arose for my parents to move, I sprung at the chance. They moved in to a beautiful large room with twin beds and were so pleased to be back in the town they love!”

Wendy’s parents moved to Three Bridges Nursing Home just 6 days after the assessment, and although she’d worked in the home for nearly a year, she admits that seeing her parents being cared for by co-workers was an eye-opening experience. “The care has been wonderful for both mum and dad, and I feel so lucky they were cared for by my colleagues. They always kept me in the loop – as other relatives are – and I could see how comfortable and happy they were. It made me feel honoured to work in such a wonderful place.”

After a short stay at our Warrington nursing home, William sadly passed away at the age of 95. Speaking on the support her family received from Three Bridges, Wendy told us how moved she was to see how many people were there for her. “I will forever be grateful to the management and nursing team who supported us through my father’s final hours. They gave him the most incredible level of care throughout his stay, and have been a shoulder to cry on since his passing.”

Having her parents in the home was also helpful for Wendy’s role, as it gave her real-life experience of how difficult the change can also be on the resident’s family. “I truly understand how people feel when they make the decision to move a loved one to a nursing home, and the guilt that sometimes comes with this. I’m able to answer questions honestly and help people through the hard times. I’m grateful to see both perspectives, and offer the right support for those that need it.”

Living with Alzheimer’s, Doris continues to receive nursing dementia care at Three Bridges and enjoys her daily visits from her daughter. “It’s been great having my mum so close – I see her every day and we get to hug, laugh and cry together. I realise now that my dad was not only mum’s greatest cheerleader, but also her best friend. Although she can’t remember him anymore, she asks where the ‘kind man’ has gone - admittedly, it’s heart-breaking that after 70 years of marriage my mum can’t recall her husband, but she has her whole family by her side and I’m so grateful to be able to see her every day.”

The Allison’s strong family bond continues to thrive, with all of Doris’ family being able to visit her more regularly.  Although only for a short time, William and Doris could finally return to their hometown of Warrington, and William was able to enjoy his last few weeks in the town he loved so much.

We’d like to give a huge thank you to Wendy, Doris and the Allison family for allowing us to share their story – we’re so glad William and Doris were able to come home!

Are you looking for exceptional care in Warrington? Three Bridges Nursing Home offers residential care, nursing care, dementia care and short-term respite care in their warm and welcoming nursing home. Why not get in touch with the team to find out more? Call 01925 418 059 or hit the link below!