Ringing in the New Year at St Joseph's
The was a calmness in the air as we drove up the winding avenue to St Joseph's Nursing Home on the outskirts of Virginia along the Oldcastle road. Michael Tynan, Sean Byers and myself together with Damien Sheridan, the father of Meath Star Footballer Joe Sheridan, decided to visit St Joseph's Nursing Home on New Year's Eve to provide some entertainment for the patients. There is a superb friendly atmosphere in this expansive facility, which has been recently extended. Once Damien Sheridan had his music machine up and running and he sang his first song, it soon became clear that the remarkable Gertie Kells from Milltown would be the star of the show. Not alone did she join in all the songs, but she also recited two thought provoking poems, which caught the spirit of the festive season. All the staff were in great spirits and many joined in the entertainment including Maureen Akomolaff. Sean Byers sang a couple of numbers and extolled the exploits of former Cavan great Paul Fitzsimons who's currently a resident in St Joseph's. Michael Tynan sang a medley of songs as the refreshments and a few glasses of whiskey were dispensed by the staff, to ensure everyone kept in the spirit of the occasion. There are lots big hearted people out there and it was wonderful to see Damien Sheridan driving from Navan to entertain the residents. The man who won an Ulster minor medal with Cavan in 1974 and also won four Meath senior titles with Navan O'Mahony's is enjoying being back on the entertainment scene. By the time I had polished off half a dozen roses it was time to take the microphone and it was great to be able to bring a bit of laughter to the faces of the residents with a few funny impressions of RTE stars, present and past. Thanks to the director of care at St Joseph's Dawn Mc Clean and all the staff for making our visit so special. The last word must go to Gertie Kells who explained to me how she crochets beautiful multicoloured bags from plastic bags and the magnificent bed rug which she has just completed, is a real work of art. As we headed for the door and wished one and all a happy 2012, Gertie shouts with a twinkle in her eye: "Don't be long until yiz are back."