Long-Term Client Fulfils Her Dream with a Trip to Marwell Zoo

On 18th September 2024, Right at Home Mid Hampshire celebrated the relaunch of their 'Tin Full of Wishes' program, designed to help clients fulfil their lifelong dreams. The first wish since the relaunch came from long-term client and animal enthusiast, Margaret Sargent.

During the week commencing 9th September 2024, Margaret shared with her live-in carer that she had always wanted to visit the zoo, sparking excitement in the office team. They immediately set to work to make her wish a reality.

Upon hearing Margaret’s story, the incredible team at Marwell Zoo generously donated free tickets for Margaret, her live-in carer Mevis, and Compliance Coordinator Grace to attend. On 18th September, the trio embarked on an unforgettable day at the zoo, visiting every animal enclosure and encountering a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, monkeys, and more.

The highlight of the trip was a special moment with the zoo’s tiger, Valentina. Margaret, a self-proclaimed tiger lover, was particularly eager to visit the tiger enclosure. Since the passing of Marwell’s long-standing tiger, Bagai, Valentina has been seen less frequently. The zoo commented, "Valentina and Bagai were a very close pair, often seen grooming, playing, and sleeping together. Since Bagai’s passing, Valentina has kept to herself more." However, when Margaret arrived at the tiger enclosure, wearing her tiger-patterned jacket, Valentina came up to the screen, as if to greet her. It was a truly magical moment for Margaret, whose love for tigers was met with this incredible experience.

The trio capped off the day with ice cream, enjoying the beauty of the zoo and it’s surroundings. Margaret was overwhelmed with gratitude, expressing that this was a day she will never forget.

Shannon Haines, Registered Manager at Right at Home Mid Hampshire, shared her thoughts on the heartwarming experience:

“We are so thrilled to bring back our ‘Tin Full of Wishes’ program, and what a fantastic way to start! We are incredibly thankful to Marwell Zoo for making this happen and proud of our team for going the extra mile to make our clients’ wishes come true. It’s moments liken these that remind us why we do what we do.”

Right at Home Mid Hampshire is committed to enhancing the lives of their clients, not onlyhrough exceptional care but also by fulfilling personal dreams. The 'Tin Full of Wishes' program will continue to grant meaningful experiences to clients, one wish at a time.