Last week at Newholme, Walton and Cavendish hospitals, we belatedly discussed Valentine’s Day. But it’s never too late to talk about love. Love can be a tricky subject for older patients, who may have suffered bereavement. But for some people, it’s a chance to revive cherished memories of a life-long partner.
Some patients have partners who lovingly visit them, and sending and receiving Valentine’s cards is really important in keeping the love alive, despite difficult times. These poems represent romantic stories and recollections of younger days. I hope you enjoy them.
The beauty of loving someone for life.
Our Truth About Love
He was in the army. He had curly hair.
They sent him to Christmas Island,
And when I came home from work,
There would be piles of letters from far away.
A few weeks later, I came home, and there he was.
Sitting with my parents,
And he’d already asked my dad for my hand.
Dad told him to look after me.
And he did. For over fifty years…
Getting ready for a date,
Running towards him in high heels.
Best dress on and red lippy,
To Dronfield Picture Palace.
Love means kindness and gentleness,
When you’d do anything for someone.
Love and kindness lead the way.
Families are loving and giving.
Sending and text message every day,
Even though they’re far away.
A phone call – coming to see me.
Love means a lot.
I can’t tell you anything about love
I can’t tell you anything about love,
All different kinds of love,
Family and friends.
It’s the same as it always is, being at home.
Having your family around you,
Home means love.
I knew that she was the one,
And we’re still in love,
Still giving each other cards.
But I’d prefer a cake,
Or some chocolates…
I love you and I see you.
You’re lovely!
Some Enchanted Evening,
And romance lingers in the air.
A long time ago
It was donkey’s years ago.
Was it true love at first sight or on the rebound?
We were too close to send love letters.
Working together at Masson Mill.
You got used to the noise.
We didn’t make a big fuss on Valentine’s Day
– Rock ‘n’ Roll dancing in a suit and tie,
And I got married in my winklepickers.
A long time ago,
I went to dances in Edale.
I’ve always liked dancing.
Waltz and quickstep
Foxtrot and tango
Military two-step and barn dances.
I loved them all.
Dales Tales - Voices from Newholme, Cavendish and Walton Hospitals 