On those rare occasions when the planets align, it feels as though friendships are destined, written in the stars.
For The Haven’s two Kathleens—Kathleen P and Kathleen S—there is a remarkable sense of synchronicity between them.
With the similarities coming in threes, born in England, in November, and sharing the same first name, they arrived within a few years of each other in The Haven’s Wendy Hucker home. Since then, they have become inseparable.
‘When Kathy arrived [Kathleen S] I went to her room to introduce myself, and recognising I am from England and that we both share the same name, one of the first things she said to me was, “I know this sounds strange, but what month were you born?”’
Kathleen P will turn 86, and Kathleen S, 90, this year.
Kathleen P came to The Haven with her husband, who has sadly now passed away. Although initially hesitant to move from an independent living unit into residential care, Kathleen P stated that The Haven’s Residential Manager Michael Babic ensured the transition would be a positive experience.
‘Michael made a promise to me, he said, “This will be your home forever, you will be safe, and you will be well cared for and looked after”. And he has kept his promise, right to this day.’
For Kathleen S, who first came by ambulance for respite, she said, ‘When I first came through the door, I felt such relief, I felt so safe. I thank God every day for bringing me here.’
The two seek each other out every day, and their friendship provides much hilarity and…shopping! Both have recently started going into town.
‘We both have an unfathomable English humour that no one else seems to understand,’ said Kathleen S.
Kathleen P said, ‘When they ask when we will return from our shopping trips, this one [Kathleen S] says, at 9 pm!
Although life has not been all laughs for the two, they remain there for each other through challenging times, such as when Kathleen P stayed by Kathleen S’s side when she was unwell and waiting for an ambulance.
‘Her granddaughter bought me the biggest bouquet to say thank you. ‘We have each other’s back,’ she said.
‘And I love her dearly, too. We've got each other's hearts,’ said Kathleen S.
Perhaps even stronger praise is reserved for the team at The Haven’s Wendy Hucker, whom both Kathleens say go above and beyond to support them.