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Care home resident surprised by ex-Wolves legend Steve Bull on her 100th birthday

Writer's picture: Bright Copper Kettles CICBright Copper Kettles CIC

Joan celebrating 100 years (centre), Steve Bull (left), Phil Parkes (back), Steve Daley (right).

On Wednesday 22nd January, Joan Davies, a lifelong Wolverhampton Wanderers fan, marked her 100th birthday in an unforgettable way. Surrounded by family, friends, and the legends of her beloved football club, Joan's special day demonstrated how impactful thoughtful, personalised celebrations can be for residents in care homes.


Joan, born in 1925, has lived through decades of football history, with Wolverhampton Wanderers at the heart of her story. Growing up just a stone’s throw from Molineux Stadium, she spent her youth interacting with the fans and soaking up the electric atmosphere of match days. Her deep-rooted connection to the club made her birthday celebration all the more meaningful.


Joan received an incredible surprise when former Wolves players Steve Bull, Steve Daley, and Phil Parkes paid her a special visit. These footballing legends presented Joan with a personalised Wolves shirt, a teddy bear, and a birthday cake, turning her 100th birthday into an event she’ll never forget.


“I never thought I’d make it to 100,” Joan admitted, reflecting on the day. “It doesn’t feel real that I’m here with these players today, and this is how I’m celebrating my birthday. It’s just incredible!”


As care home activity coordinators, we understand how essential it is to make every celebration as personalised and meaningful as possible. Joan’s special day was organised by the Wolves Wishes initiative, in collaboration with the Wolves Foundation, the club’s official charity. The initiative works to bring joy to local communities through special moments like these, and it was clear that their thoughtful approach made Joan’s 100th birthday something extraordinary.


She was an active participant in the match day atmosphere, even standing in the street shouting ‘store your bikes’ to fans heading to the stadium, earning herself a few pence to share with her mum. Her passion for Wolves remained strong throughout her life, and the memories she created as a young fan were reflected in the joy of the present.


The visit from Steve Bull, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the club’s history, was a moment that left Joan overjoyed. “To have Steve Bull and the other players here means the world to me,” she shared. “I’ve followed Wolves through thick and thin for so long, and having them celebrate with me has made this birthday so memorable.”


Joan’s 100th birthday celebration is an excellent example of how care homes can go above and beyond to create unforgettable moments for their residents. The power of personalisation is key. By tapping into residents’ interests, past experiences, and lifelong passions, you can craft celebrations that are both meaningful and memorable. Joan’s love for Wolverhampton Wanderers was central to her party, and it was a joy to witness how her deep connection with the club made the occasion even more special.


At Newcross Care Home, where Joan resides, the entire team took pride in helping to organise the celebration. Home Manager Jenna Hughes expressed her pride in hosting such an important milestone: “The whole team at Newcross Care Home was thrilled to be part of Joan’s 100th birthday celebration. Joan is a cherished member of our community, and it was an absolute honour to help mark such a remarkable day for her.”


It's vital to involve the entire care home team in planning and executing such celebrations. This creates a supportive, caring environment where every detail is taken into account, making the day even more meaningful for the resident.


Joan’s 100th birthday is a wonderful reminder of the power of celebrating milestones in a way that reflects the individual’s life and passions. Whether it’s through personalised gifts, community involvement, or even surprise visits from long-admired figures, creating memorable experiences for residents should be a priority in every care home.


By tapping into personal histories, making special connections, and celebrating the things that matter most to our residents, we can create experiences that not only mark the passage of time but also celebrate the joy and connection that comes with living such a rich, full life.

If you're planning your own resident celebrations, take a page from Joan's playbook - think personal, think thoughtful, and most importantly, think about what will make your residents feel truly special.


Let’s make every milestone an unforgettable one.






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