Thistle Court Care Home in Cwmbran has been buzzing with excitement after its Home Manager, Sarah Butfield, who is also a published local author, hosted a hugely successful book signing day event to raise money for a new sensory table, which ended up growing into a week-long celebration!
One of the most touching moments came when a beloved resident (who the home fondly referred to as family members), a former nurse herself, listened intently as Sarah read about her early experiences as a student nurse on the medical ward. When Sarah described the difficult experience of visiting the mortuary, she gently smiled and said, “Oh, I know dear,” showing just how deeply she related to the story.
Agnes, another ex-nurse who actually once worked at Thistle Court years ago, was in fits of laughter when Sarah shared her district nurse tales. When Sarah mentioned using rectal tubes to manage constipation in the community, Agnes cried out, “Oh my god, I did that!” before laughing loudly with everyone else.
The event, first shared by Ben at Cwmbran Life, captured the attention of the wider community, with messages of support and encouragement flooding in across social media. Relatives visited throughout the day, adding to the lively atmosphere. Signed copies of the book proved so popular that the first batch quickly sold out. With new orders already coming in for more signed copies, the fundraiser has so far raised around £100 towards Thistle Court’s goal of purchasing a new sensory table. The sensory table will provide residents living with a Dementia and other conditions with a valuable tool for stimulation, relaxation, and engagement.
The celebrations even merged with Thistle Court’s Alzheimer’s Coffee Morning, hosted at the home’s brand-new Thistle Café coffee station, which also helped raise additional funds in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK.
What makes Thistle Court truly special is that many of its residents are former carers or nurses themselves. Having a Home Manager who can relate so personally, sharing her own nursing stories, experiences, and humour, creates a unique bond. Sarah’s dual role as both a career at heart and an accomplished author has brought an extra layer of connection to the home.
For more information about Thistle Court Care Home activities please visit – Activities in Care – Thistle Court Care Home