Katrina Austin, Home Manager of Tenchley Manor Nursing Home, shares a deeply personal story of love, loss, and dedication, highlighting the exceptional care provided by her team during the most challenging times.
Katrina Austin (right) pictured with her mother, Janet
Sweet memories
“Janet was my mum and my best friend in the whole world. She was a wife, a mother, a grandmother, and a good friend to all who knew her,” begins Katrina, recounting her cherished memories. “I moved to Selsey in 2011, and mum and dad followed fairly soon. We had always been so close, spending time together shopping, on holidays, getting our hair done, or simply watching the telly. My god, she loved to shop! Life was so good, and mum always made the effort to see the kids splashing about in the sea at East Beach.”
An unexpected turn
The arrival of COVID-19 in January 2020 brought unprecedented challenges. Katrina, fully aware of the risks, took strict measures to protect her parents. “I strictly locked my parents down to keep them safe. They were just around the corner, but we couldn’t just go round and sit with them. As soon as we could get to them again, we were there in a flash.”
In August 2020, life took an unexpected turn. “Mum had a fall and ended up in the hospital. Although they found no injury, she suddenly developed acute delirium. We decided the best thing for her, and the family was to admit her to Tenchley Manor as dad couldn’t manage looking after her. It was hard as they had been married for 55 years, and due to COVID, he could hardly spend any time with her due to visiting restrictions, but the team in the home did what they could.”
The support of a team
Despite the efforts and dedication of the Tenchley Manor staff, Janet’s health deteriorated. “She began to suffer a series of strokes. I truly believe that she was in the best place, and the staff showed every kindness to her. I felt completely secure in the fact that she was there. She sadly passed away on 10 February 2021, leaving a massive hole in our lives.”
Katrina expresses great pride and gratitude for her team at Tenchley Manor. “I am immensely proud of the team who cared for her and stand by my decision to place my own mum in my care home. Every day, I see the dedication, compassion, and care the team display to every resident. Whilst I miss her every day, I am relieved to know she had the best possible care here at Tenchley Manor.”
More about Tenchley Manor and Healthcare Homes
Tenchley Manor
In the heart of Selsey, just south of Chichester, Tenchley Manor stands as a warm and welcoming home offering nursing, respite, and end-of-life care. Picture well-maintained gardens, a wheelchair-friendly promenade, and the soothing sound of waves at your doorstep.
For more information on how to support Tenchley Manor, or to arrange a visit, please contact Healthcare Homes at 01394 338776.
Healthcare Homes
Healthcare Homes Group is the parent company of Tenchley Manor. Additionally, it is a respected name in the care home industry. With a portfolio of 48 care homes as well as domiciliary and Live-in care services. Healthcare Homes consistently ranks among the top care home providers.
For further details on our care homes, home care, live-in care, specialist care, or recruitment opportunities, please visit our main website or reach out to our helpful advisors at 01206 646646.
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