Take The Lang Road Home

So happy together…

here’s nothing quite like that sinking feeling when a child realises that they can no longer look after a parent…

And there’s nothing quite like that rush of relief when you find someone who can.

It’s a feeling that inspired the Lang siblings, Deirdre, David, Colin and Fiona, to put St Joseph’s Shankill forward for the International Daisy Award, which recognises excellence in nursing care.

Having lost their mother, Frances, in February, the Langs were then unable to visit their father, Paul, because of the lockdown. Currently sharing accommodation at Carrigeen Lodge at St Joseph’s on Crinken Lane with others coping with dementia, that their father was out of reach for 16 weeks at such a time was particularly heartbreaking for the siblings…

“The staff in Crinken were so kind to us,” says Fiona. “When you are grieving for one parent and not being able to see your other parent it is particularly distressing. However, we knew Dad was in great hands and that they would look after him, and keep him safe and well. We wanted to thank the staff but felt that flowers and chocolates wouldn’t express how much their care of Dad meant to us.

“So Deirdre discovered the International Daisy Award. We contacted them and told them our story and they made a bespoke award just for Crinken – the first Daisy Award in Ireland.”

The staff at Carrigeen Lodge – including Norma Sheenan (director of nursing) and Sarah Kuntz, pictured above left with Deirdre and Fiona – were each awarded a certificate of appreciation.

“Our brother Colin couldn’t be there,” finishes Fiona, “so he did what he does best and put his feelings in a song which thanks the staff for their compassion and care…”