Download high resolution image [JPEG 2.9MB]
The true meaning of Christmas has been on full display at Dr EAF McDonald Residential Aged Care in Oakey, with one Darling Downs family going out of their way to spread some holiday cheer.
Grace Fogarty has spent the past 13 years delivering Christmas joy to people in her local community in the form of baked goods, small gifts, hugs, dog pats, and quality conversation.
A move to Goombungee, north of Toowoomba, has brought the Fogarty family’s Christmas cheer to the residents at Dr EAF McDonald Residential Aged Care for the past three years, and they’ve earned a special place in Ms Fogarty’s heart.
“It’s been really nice to go back to the same place and see the staff members who have been there the whole time, as well as the residents and their family members who remember us and have gotten to know us a little bit,” Ms Fogarty said.
Ms Fogarty said this year’s visit had been her favourite yet, because her two-year-old son Thomas could join in and help make the residents smile.
“I got a bit teary watching my son interacting with the residents; it was really beautiful watching Tommy running around and cuddling them, chatting, and showing them that empathy,” she said.
Ms Fogarty is looking forward to visiting again next year with another family member in tow, with baby number two on the way.
In addition to Thomas’ cuddles, the Oakey residents were also treated to cuddles and pats from the Fogarty family dog, Prinny. It was that animal interaction that had one resident with dementia smiling more than he had in some time.
“My husband picked up the dog so this gentleman could pat her, and his face just lit up. His wife was crying; it just meant so much to her to see him like that.”
Oakey Hospital Director of Nursing, Matthew Boyd, said the Fogarty’s visit had been a breath of fresh air for the residents and staff at this time of year.
“Having the Fogarty family visit and that small gesture of providing a chocolate and candy cane – and a pat of their dog – brought so much pleasure and joy to our residents,” Mr Boyd said.
“Their faces lit up to see this amazing family in their festive clothes who gave up a small part of their day to bring some Christmas cheer.
“Over the past few years, the staff have gotten to know Grace and to now see her come with her young son has been priceless. Staff cannot wait to meet their new addition in 2025.”
Ms Fogarty began her tradition of gifting Christmas spirit when she was a Girl Guide under the direction of her childhood Girl Guide Leader ‘Possum’, who taught her the importance of giving back to her community.
“Possum was a beautiful lady and, sadly, she passed away with cancer when I was still in Girl Guides. I’ve continued the tradition of these visits each year and I always feel really connected with her; it’s something that can live on in her name,” she said.
Ms Fogarty said she would encourage everyone to consider donating some of their time this holiday season to those in their community who might appreciate a little extra love and care.
“It’s not about the money or expensive gifts; it’s just about spending time with people and saying ‘Hello’, and ‘Merry Christmas’,” she said.
“To be able to sit there and just have a chat and a bit of a laugh, and to really give them that time is something a lot of them appreciate more than the gifts.
“We all rush around in life, and I know we’re always running out of time. But no matter how busy we are, we do all have some time to spare – it’s just a matter of how we use it.”