For Home Care client Norm, a day at the races used to be a regular occurrence. After over five years of absence, Norm recently returned to Ascot with the help of MercyCare’s Home Care team.
At 92 years old, Norm is still quick-witted and an absolute character.
“My name is Ernest Williams, but I have always gone by Norm. Even when I was in trouble with mum she would call me Norm.”
When visiting Norm at home, Home Care Coordinator Jess noticed that he had a lot of racing memorabilia on display. When Jess broached the subject of arranging a visit, it was obvious how passionate he was about the idea.
“Norm’s face lit up and he showed the most amount of energy all day” Jess remembered.
MercyCare’s Person centred approach ensures the Home Care team deliver individual services in line client preferences and interests, like Norm’s passion for racing.
Preparing for the big day
In the lead-up, Norm has thoroughly read through the form guide to make an informed pick.
“My support worker Yana helped me go through the horses and we made notes about which ones I liked” smiled Norm.
“This way if I lose, I can blame Yana!”
The preparation is almost as fun as the actual race for Norm, as he gets to review recent races and forms.
“We checked out the Jockeys and I found which ones my favourites are on”
The big day at the races
After months of planning and a couple of false starts, the day was finally here.
“When I arrived at Norm’s house, he was dressed in his finest and ready to go” said Jess.
“You couldn’t wipe the smile off his face”
Norm has stay connected with the racing scene over the years.
“I watch all the races on my TV. I bought a big TV just to be able to watch all the races at home. I am very happy to be going back to being there.”
With the assistance of support worker Michelle, Norm arrived at Ascot Racecourse and was greeted by a celebrity entrance including a red carpet.
A lot had changed since his last visit, but the essence of the experience was still the same.
“I like everything about it (The races). I like dressing up. Nowadays people don’t dress as well as they used to.” Said Norm
It turns out that Norm’s hard work paid off, picking two winners on the day in races two and three.
Memories of trips to the races
“I first went when I was young. Many years ago. After I left school. I fell in love with it.” Said Norm.
“My wife and I used to go to the races together.”
He fondly remembers these visits, with a full day at Ascot often followed by the evening trots at Gloucester park (his favourite). Norm also remembers country road trips with his wife to watch the races in Bunbury, Pinjarra, Toodyay and Moora.
Norm also recalls the excitement of owning horses and greyhounds, adding to the experience in his younger days.
How to pick a winner
“Picking a winner is all about luck.” Norm laughs.
He recalls the inside information he would receive from his wife who worked in the industry “But for me, it’s just luck”
“My neighbours ask who I am betting on for Melbourne cup”
Norm recalls a particular year when he recommended number 6 to a neighbour and it ended up winning the race, netting her “nearly $900!”.
Despite the occasional big win, Norm isn’t always keen to offer his pick “I don’t like it as I feel bad if they don’t win!”
When asked if the jockey or the horse wins the race, Norm is adamant that both play their part and he always takes the jockey in to account when choosing his tip.
Assistance to Keep Your Independence
Home Care
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