Matilda, a Healthcare Assistant at Sweyne Court Care Home in Essex, was due to turn 70 during her annual leave, but her team members still wanted to celebrate. So, they all worked together to plan a surprise party for her on her last shift, to properly celebrate the milestone!
First, they ensured that Matilda was assigned jobs to do on the first floor, giving them ample time to decorate the lower dining room with banners, balloons and bunting. Chef Dee and Kitchen Assistant Josh prepared a birthday cake and finger buffet for the team and the people living at the home, and the team organised a collection so they could get Matilda a gift card, a bottle of gin, some chocolates and a large ‘70’ badge.
The team slowly brought residents to the dining room, ensuring that they did not raise suspicion. Then, when everyone was gathered, they called Matilda downstairs to the lower floor dining room.
Matilda was very emotional, and it took a few minutes to compose herself whilst everyone sang ‘Happy Birthday’. Once she had settled, she made a short speech thanking everyone, in which she shared that Sweyne Court is her life and she has never had a better birthday.
After her speech, Matilda was presented with a blossoming bouquet of flowers, and everyone enjoyed the music and buffet. It was a wonderful afternoon for everyone involved, and a birthday that Matilda will never forget.