Care home resident with dementia surprises wife by recreating first date 68 years later

David and Sheila enjoying a dance together. Credit: Renaissance Care.

AN ELDERLY care home resident marked Valentine’s Day with an extra special touch as he surprised his wife by recreating their first date almost 68 years later. 

David Pratt, 85, who suffers from dementia, had previously tried to arrange the Valentine’s Day treat for his 84-year-old wife Sheila at the Beach Ballroom in Aberdeen but was taken unwell.

However, on Friday, February 14, the couple fulfilled their dream and danced to their favourite song by Frank Sinatra at the venue where they first met in 1952. Delighted to share this wonderful moment with his soulmate, David said after the dance:

“Meeting Sheila was one of the most special moments in my life so to finally get the chance to recreate this moment in a place that holds so many special memories for us both means a lot.

“Without each other there’s nothing. I wouldn’t be without her for five minutes.”

The couple often share meals together despite David living in a care home. Credit: Renaissance Care.

The pair had met when David was just 17-years old and Sheila was 16, soon marrying and starting a family.

When David fell unwell he became a resident at Jesmond Care Home in the Bridge of Don where his wife visits him every day. Although she still lives at their family home, Sheila frequently visits her husband to share meals, events and social gatherings held at the care home.

The couple on their wedding day. Credit: Renaissance Care.
Author badge placeholder
Written by

Euro Weekly News Media

Share your story with us by emailing newsdesk@euroweeklynews.com, by calling +34 951 38 61 61 or by messaging our Facebook page www.facebook.com/EuroWeeklyNews

Comments