A resident at Westbank care home in Sevenoaks enjoyed an emotional and unforgettable family occasion when he proudly walked his daughter Michelle down the aisle on her wedding day.
69-year-old Sam Donaldson donned his best suit for the special day at Hever Castle, where he was supported by Valli, a carer from Westbank, part of Aurem Care.
Preparations began at the home on the morning of the wedding, with Westbank’s hairdresser coming in especially to make sure Sam was looking his best for the occasion.
Looking dashing in his suit, Sam travelled with Valli to the wedding venue to join his family for the celebrations. The highlight came when the proud father accompanied his daughter down the aisle.
Sam said: “It was a very emotional day. I cried.”
The wedding also gave Sam the opportunity to spend precious time surrounded by his family, including his brother and two-year-old grandson.
Valli said: “Sam was so happy to see all his family together, especially his brother and his two-year-old grandson.
“It was a beautiful day and I felt honoured to be able to support Sam so he could attend such a momentous occasion. His family were lovely and made me feel so welcome.
“Seeing Sam walking alongside his daughter and being part of such an important day for their family was incredibly special.”
Beckie Waterman, home manager at Westbank, said: “We were all delighted that Sam was able to play such an important part in his daughter’s wedding day.
“Supporting our residents is about enabling them to continue enjoying the relationships, experiences and milestones that matter most to them. For Sam, there could hardly have been a more important occasion than being there for his daughter and walking beside her down the aisle.
“We were very proud to play a small part in making that possible, and a huge thank you must go to Valli for supporting Sam throughout the day and to our hairdresser for coming in especially to help him get ready.
“It was clearly a wonderful day for Sam and his family, and we loved hearing all about it when he returned home.”
