Above, Villa Forum residents, staff and friends head out to attend the Dec. 19 Olympic flame ceremony in Mississauga.
Villa Forum residents and staff take part in Olympic flame ceremony
Experience shows life in long-term care can be fulfilling and rewarding, says administrator
Wednesday January 6, 2010 -- Michelle Strutzenberger
Residents and staff of the Villa Forum long-term care home were able to take part in a recent Olympic flame ceremony in Mississauga.

Having the opportunity to participate in this historical experience demonstrates that life in long-term care can be fulfilling and rewarding, says Villa Forum administrator Maria Cherbel.

“This has been a wonderful experience for Villa Forum seniors, and once again it does show that life in long-term care can be so fulfilling, with experiences that give joy, happiness, and memories that can be shared with families and friends,” Cherbel notes.

On Dec. 19 eight residents, three staff and a personal companion attended the ceremony for the cauldron lighting at the Mississauga Civic Centre where about 200 community members had gathered for the occasion.

“The temperatures were below freezing; but the residents, bundled up in coats and hats, mittens and blankets, braved the cold for a brief but important part of Canadian history,” recreation aide Julie Johnston recounts in a write-up about the event.

Local musical talent was provided while event organizers handed out hot chocolate, flags and tambourines.

“A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most, the residents of Villa Forum were wrapped in warmth and excitement as they danced and sang in the crowd for almost two hours on that Saturday morning,” says Johnston.

One resident was overcome with emotion at being able to take part in the activity, remarking that he wished he could be the one carrying the torch.

Another attendee says she felt lucky and honoured to participate.

“It was a beautiful ceremony and I was happy to see how it works for the torch-bearers who are running for our country,” she says.

“A memorable and emotional event for all, these residents and staff of Villa Forum will carry this special event in their hearts for the rest of their lives,” says Johnston.

She adds that when the Olympics games officially begin on Feb. 12 the residents, staff and visitors of Villa Forum will be watching “from our giant projection screen and cheer(ing) on Canada as we win gold.”

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