FORMER airline steward of 40 years, Jimmy Welsh, a resident at Melbourn Springs in Melbourn, had always wanted to fly again, so staff at the home set about making his wish a reality.
Jimmy was diagnosed with dementia in 2021 and has lived at the care home since 2023. The team at the home were delighted to be a part of making his dream come true, as they knew how much it meant to him, and they all wanted to be there to see the smile on Jimmy’s face.
Flying has been Jimmy’s life. He was 20 in 1966 when he accepted his job as a British Airways crew member.
His first flight took him to Prestwick, Scotland, and then to many different countries he never even knew existed. During his 40-year career, Jimmy met many personalities and politicians, including the Beatles, Pelé, Marlon Brando, Paul Getty and Muhammad Ali.
Before retiring from British Airways in 2006, Jimmy was given the opportunity to choose his final destination. He chose to go to Singapore with his wife, Sue, a place he had always loved.
Staff from Melbourn Springs were able to take Jimmy flying in a small aircraft thanks to the generosity of the British Aerobatic Academy in Fowlmere.
General manager Vimu Welisarag said: “We believe that every moment is worth cherishing. We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here.
“This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in making our residents’ dreams come true. It was wonderful to see how happy Jimmy was, and the staff loved being part of this as well.”