Residents partake in
hockey night in Sarnia
Friday, March 11, 2005 - Morning Report staff
Having a son who coached boys' hockey teams and worked as a controller at Maple Leaf Gardens, Elizabeth Franck developed an interest in Canada's sport.

Recently, the Sarnia woman took in her first OHL game, seeing the Sarnia Sting face off against the London Knights. It was a novelty for Elizabeth, now a resident of Afton Park Place, a long-term care facility in Sarnia owned by Steeves & Rozema.

"That was the first time I had been to the arena or a hockey game in Sarnia,” says Elizabeth.

“It was a great pleasure. My son is a great (Toronto) Maple Leafs fan and he coached boys' teams. That's how I came to enjoy hockey."

Elizabeth was one of nine residents who attended the OHL game, care of Therapy Supplies and Rental, one of the long-term care facility's suppliers. The supplier purchased 15 tickets and provided additional support staff to accompany residents to the game.

Vicki Cathcart, manager of life enrichment at Afton Park Place, says the outing was popular with residents.

"Everyone raved about it," says Vicki.

“It allowed our residents to see the new sports facility and get them out to a hockey game which many have not been to in years. It provided them with a sense or normality.”

People of differing mobility and cognitive levels were able to attend. One man, who is typically quiet, became animated following the game, sharing his experience the following morning with staff, says Vicki. While residents venture out for weekly trips to the local coffee shop, the bowling avenue or shopping mall, the trip to the hockey arena was a first, says Vicki.

Elizabeth says she enjoyed having a beer and being part of the camaraderie. “Being in the residence, we enjoy it in a different kind of way."