Surrey biker group visits enthusiast at local care home

Since moving to Wingham Court Bupa Care Home in 2019, Traci has made her passion for motorbikes no secret, with pictures of her and her husband, Paul, on their Harley Davidson motorbikes hung around her room and her personalised leather jacket proudly on display. Carers soon came to learn that Traci’s interest for motorbikes was more than just a hobby, and she was determined to continue her passion when she hung a ‘wish’ on the care home’s ‘wish tree’ to continue her passion and see some motorbikes again.

Emerie Burns, senior activity co-ordinator at Wingham Court, liaised with Traci’s husband to arrange a visit from the local biker group. The group pulled together several members and Paul organised for the bike he and Traci rode together to be parked in the car park. The Wingham Court kitchen team also prepared some nibbles and drinks for the residents and visitors.

Emerie Burns said: “Paul visits Traci nearly every day. We know it means so much to him, and all our residents’ families, to know that their loved ones are well looked after, and activities are tailored to their preferences. So, we wanted to organise this special event to show Traci and her family how much we value her.”

Hogsback Chapter is a local bikers club based at and sponsored by Guildford Harley-Davidson. With an emphasis on having fun and expanding members’ social lives, they often visit the wider community to make new friends and provide new experiences for others.

Commenting on the visit, Paul said: “As soon as she heard that familiar sound of bikes rumbling into the car park Traci was thrilled. Motorbikes and organised bike meets have always been a huge part of mine and Traci’s lives together. Thank you so much to the carers at Wingham Court in helping me re-create those memories for my wife.”

Claire Hooper, home manager, said: “On the morning of the ride through, there was a real buzz in the air amongst the residents. Traci and many other residents had their photo taken by the bikes and chatted to the group, who were all so kind and engaged. We could all see how much the morning meant to Traci and her husband.

“It is vital for our residents to be able to maintain their sense of identity and individuality while they are with us. It was a pleasure to organise this special morning for Traci and give her the opportunity to reminisce about weekends gone by.”

Wingham Court are looking forward to organising the next bike meet this summer.

Wingham Court Bupa Care Home is situated in Claygate, Surrey and welcomes residents in need of nursing or residential care including those living with Parkinson’s. For further information, please visit https://www.bupa.co.uk/care-services