A pensioner was able to rekindle his life-long passion for motorbikes after being taken on a dream ride at a Scots care home.
Tommy Briggs, 86, got back in the seat after a special visit from a local motorcycle group. The nostalgic experience was spurred by staff after Tommy told staff at Riverside View care home in Dundee how he used to ride motorcycles himself.
Nursing assistant Francine contacted the Dundee Scooter Review (DSR) and asked them to come along and see Tommy, who is a former mechanic. Hoolie, who is Head of the DSR, showed Tommy and the other residents the motorcycle, and asked Tommy if he wanted to take a seat.
The visit from the DSR was more than just a day with motorbikes for Tommy – it was a reconnection with a former hobby and a powerful reminder that it is never too late to rekindle an old passion. The team at Riverside View say they are proud to go the extra mile for their residents – no matter their age or abilities.
Tommy Briggs, who has lived at Riverside View for a year and a half, said: “I never thought I would sit on a bike again; I cannot believe this! Thank you so much.”
Clair McDonald, Home Manager at HC-One Scotland’s Riverside View, commented: “We are always promoting person-centred care, and the wellbeing of every resident at the centre of it. We are so pleased Tommy could get back on a motorcycle again.
“To say there wasn’t a dry eye was an understatement. Tommy has always had a passion for motorcycles. He was a mechanic previously. We had a trip to the transport museum, and this ignited Tommy’s passion again.
“He told Francine about the visit who then contacted DSR. The next day they agreed to come and visit and were more than happy. Tommy along with all the other residents got to enjoy the visit.
“Tommy was offered to go on the motorcycle, when he did, he was passionately telling the DSR leader Hollie and the staff all his stories. Hoolie the Group Leader called, and they were getting hoodies made for the group and kindly asked if Tommy would like one. Tommy was over the moon.
“Peggy, Tommy’s wife, was absolutely thrilled to hear Tommy enjoy his previous passions. She also has framed his photo and has got it up in his room. We are currently organising a motorbike and a side car for him so he can go out with another local bike group our maintenance officer is part of.
“Also, Peggy had commented saying she hasn’t seen passion in her husband’s eyes for a long time. Feels this has reignited the old Tommy in him. His overall wellbeing is so good just now.”
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