70 year age gap? No problem!
Resthaven Mitcham resident, Fleur Bayliss-Nayda (90) has found an instant connection with Volunteer, Tomoko “Chloe” Nakajo (20).
Tomoko, who began volunteering with Resthaven only a short time ago, is currently studying at the Intensive English Language Institute, before returning to her studies at the University of Japan in September.
‘Tomoko approached us as she wanted to be with older people and learn about our culture,’ said Manager, Volunteer Services, Stacey Thompson.
‘We immediately thought of Fleur, whose late husband was Japanese.’
‘We thought there might be a connection there.’
A connection there was, with Tomoko and Fleur hitting it off straightaway. Before too long, the pair were enjoying coffee dates together, where they talk about ‘anything and everything – we just chatter, like girls do,’ says Fleur.
Fleur has even introduced Tomoko to her beloved granddaughter, Mai Lin.
‘When I first saw Tomoko, I thought how much she reminded me of my daughter when she was 20,’ says Fleur with a smile.
‘I even asked her if it would be ok to give her an English name, just for her time here.’
‘She was more than happy with that, so, together, we picked “Chloe,” as, to me, it sounded like a cherry blossom.’
‘We looked up the actual meaning, which turned out to be “pretty, green, fresh and blooming.” Nothing could describe Tomoko better!’
Tomoko is teaching Fleur how to write in Japanese, a skill Fleur never learned until now.
‘It’s a surprise for Mai Lin,’ explains Fleur.
‘I’m learning to write the days of the week, the months, and, next, the time.’
‘Mai Lin will be so happy when I show her.’
To Fleur’s delight, Tomoko is full of other interesting skills, presenting her with a beautiful set of origami cranes to display in her room, made with paper sent over from Japan.
‘I’m having such a good time with residents and staff,’ says Tomoko, ‘and I’m looking forward to spending lots more time with Fleur.’