Hemel care team takes Dinkar, 89, back to Kenyan childhood with VIP elephant experience
Two residents from a care home in Hemel Hempstead enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime experience when they came face-to-face with elephants during a special VIP visit to Whipsnade Zoo.
The lifestyle team at Water Mill House Care Home organised an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at the zoo’s Centre for Elephant Care for residents Dinkar Patel and Marian Grogan as part of their wish initiative.
The pair were taken to meet the gentle giants up close and were able to help feed the elephants and learn more about them from expert staff, even getting to hear exclusive news of a pregnant member of the herd!
For Dinkar, aged 89, the experience carried a special connection to his childhood. Born in Kenya, he grew up surrounded by wildlife until the age of 12 and often accompanied rangers to see elephants in their natural habitat.
“Whenever I had the opportunity, I would go with a ranger to see elephants,” recalled Dinkar, who made Water Mill House his home in October 2023.
“Usually it was from a distance because they were wild and unpredictable, so to see them up close and personal was amazing, it was incredible being able to feed them and really appreciate just how huge yet gentle they are.
“When choosing a wish this was something close to my heart and it absolutely didn't disappoint!”
Located on Rose Lane in Hemel Hempstead, Water Mill House provides expert care to adults with a range of support needs including rehabilitation following a stroke, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s, as well as residential, nursing, specialist dementia and end of life care.
Elephants have been Marian’s favourite animal since childhood, and the experience brought back treasured memories of visiting Whipsnade Zoo as a young girl.
“I got to ride an elephant at Whipsnade when I was seven,” said Marian, aged 82. “It’s a memory that’s always stayed with me and it made me love elephant all the more.
“This visit was truly magical and I loved every minute. It’s so wonderful to make exciting new memories and this was an unforgettable day.”
The experience went far beyond simply meeting the elephants. The residents enjoyed informative talks from the zoo’s team about elephant conservation, habitats and life in the wild.
With support from the home’s care team, both residents, who are wheelchair users, were able to enjoy the experience safely and comfortably.
Lifestyle coordinator Colin Levy, who accompanied the residents on the trip, described the day as deeply moving.
“It was fascinating to learn more about the animals and wonderful watching Dinkar and Marian feeding the elephants,” said Colin.
“We’re passionate about helping residents achieve their wishes and continue enjoying meaningful experiences. There is something deeply therapeutic about these gentle giants and to see both residents really engage and enjoy every moment made it one wish we will all remember.”
When asked whether they would like to do it all again, Dinkar and Marian’s answer was unanimous: “A big, big yes!”
The team at Water Mill House are finalists in this year’s Care Culture Award at the Hertfordshire Care Awards, and the Palliative Nursing Home Provider Award at the Palliative & End of Life Care Awards, the winners of which will be announced over the summer.