Ryman Healthcare Residents Honour Aged Care Heroes

During the COVID-19 crisis the bravery and dedication of many of the workers too important to seek refuge in their homes has often gone unseen, and unacknowledged.

But independent residents at Ryman Healthcare Nellie Melba were determined to show their appreciation for the heroes in their midst: the village’s dedicated team of aged care workers.

To show their gratitude to the care team, and to all essential workers in the community, dozens of residents banded together for a public display of appreciation.

Under the guidance of activities coordinator Charlotte Rowe they created and rehearsed a song and dance routine – an adaptation of ‘We’re all in this together’ – made colourful ‘thank you’ signs, and gathered in a village courtyard to put on a performance to honour the selflessness and sacrifice of the village’s carers.    

John Flynn village manager, Roslyn Prentice, who is based at Nellie Melba while that village is being built, said the show of support meant a lot to the care centre staff. 

“They loved it. They really appreciated that residents in independent apartments are thinking about the staff over here in the village centre.

“It’s nice for them to be appreciated and feel the love.”

Roslyn said it’s been a challenging few months for staff at the village, particularly those charged with caring for the most vulnerable residents in the care centre.

“[Carers] are trying to keep themselves quite isolated so they stay healthy so they can do their jobs and keep everything here safe.”

Roslyn said witnessing up close the poise and professionalism of Nellie Melba’s care team during the COVID-19 crisis had been a humbling experience. 

“They’re so good at not showing any anxiety, they keep a smile in their face, they’re calm and caring under pressure.

“I just don’t know how they do it.”

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