Love knows no language barriers
On 29 May, Resthaven Community Respite Services clients were invited to a special ‘Mother’s Day out’ lunch and concert, celebrating a different culture, and the unity of all mothers.
Senior Manager Community Services, Wojtek Swietek says, ‘We took the Resthaven bus out with six clients, and four volunteers, including the bus driver.’
‘The clients looked forward to a delicious lunch at Bocelli café, and then walked to the Dom Polski Centre for the afternoon’s entertainment. This was a singing and dancing ensemble called ‘Tatry’, presenting a tribute to Mother’s Day, which is usually celebrated in Poland on the last weekend of May.’
The Polish dancers wore stunning traditional costumes and gave a memorable experience to everyone there.
‘One client, Mrs Gloria Rivett, told me that she is glad not to be home alone on this day, as she has only recently lost her husband,’ Wojtek explains.
‘She went on to say that the singing, dancing and costumes were delightful, and again, how grateful she was for the respite opportunity.’
Relieving Assistant Manager, Ania Rustecka, says, ‘Trish and the other ladies all commented on how privileged they felt to participate in the event.’
‘One of the ladies commented during the break that, although the songs were in Polish, it didn’t matter, as we all knew that the songs were about mothers and about love – which as we know, is international, and knows no language barriers.’
‘A few of the ladies mentioned how important families are, and Trish made a comment that really resonated with me. She said, “We are a family. All of us…right here and now”.’
‘Another client commented, “Families come in different shapes and forms”.’
‘I am Polish, so sharing my culture, and my daughters, who have been involved with Tatry since they were 4 years old (and both danced yesterday) – was an indescribable feeling for me.’
Ania’s daughters came to meet the clients when their performance was over, delighting everyone with their beautiful smiles and outfits.
‘I am very happy to be working for an organisation whose sole purpose is to bring care, health and joy to older people in our society,’ she says.
‘One day in the future I may become one of Resthaven’s clients and when that day comes I know I will be looking forward to all the social outings Resthaven organises – they are very special.’
Established in 1935, Resthaven is a South Australian not-for-profit aged care community service associated with the Uniting Church in Australia.
Every day, Resthaven shares the lives and wisdom of older people and their carers, opening doors to the full range of aged care service options available.
Services are provided throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Fleurieu Peninsula, lower Barossa region and the Limestone Coast of South Australia.
