Oldham Woman's Wish Comes True In Nationwide Initiative

An Oldham woman’s dream of watching ‘The Lord of The Rings’ on the silver screen came true thanks to Caremark.

Cirsty Waller, who receives support from the organisation, was selected as one of only 20 recipients across the UK to have a wish granted through the company’s ‘Care for a Wish’ initiative which was launched to celebrate Caremark’s 20-year anniversary.

Cirsty’s wish was to watch ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King’ at the Royal Albert Hall. This was made possible through support from Caremark Limited, which funded and coordinated the experience.

She was accompanied by her son Kieran on the trip, which included an evening meal and an overnight stay in London.

“I've been a fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ since I was a child. I remember being in my junior school library when someone told me the book was too old for me. I asked if I could borrow it anyway, and after reading it, I was completely hooked. It has a special place in my heart, and it was my escape from life in general, even now.”

She said the Royal Albert Hall was stunning and she had a fantastic view. She added that the showing was brilliant, especially with the London Philharmonic Orchestra playing.

“Caremark supports me with four visits each day, along with additional flexible hours per week providing assistance to allow me to do my own shopping and enjoying social activities. They help with medication and personal care and a bit of cleaning. More than that, it’s the company. I get to know the regulars,” she said.

“I love that Wanda makes time to fuss over my cats. Amelia tells me all about her weekends out. I love Nazmeen coming and knowing which days she will be here, as that helps me with routines.

“When I realised that I was one of only 20, my mind was literally blown. ‘Why me?’

“Someone else must have been more deserving than me; I got to do something I’ve always dreamed of doing.

“It was out of this world. I want to thank Caremark for choosing me and supporting me for the last four years,” Waller said.

Caremark serves over 8,000 customers nationwide. The company offers a range of services to support those in need and Caremark’s Oldham branch has recently been rated good in all areas during a recent inspection by CQC.

Charlene Buckley, Care manager, said: “The ‘Care for a Wish’ campaign was launched by Caremark last year to commemorate its 20-year anniversary.

“They wanted to grant the wishes of 20 customers across the country. It was aimed at bringing joy to the people we care for and make dreams come true. It reinforced our commitment to improving lives across the UK.

“We are delighted that Cirsty was chosen to fulfil her special ‘wish’, and to see the impact on her was truly magical.”

 The campaign was run across all 140 Caremark’s branches in the UK. Care assistants were encouraged to gather customers’ wishes and encourage them to enter the online process. The entries were then judged by an independent panel, who reviewed all entries.