9th February 2026
At Rhydderch House, some people don’t just live there – they define it.
Doreen is one of those people.
At 90 years old, Doreen is proudly known as “the boss of the house,” a title she wears with confidence, humour, and unmistakable authority. Her presence fills Rhydderch House with warmth, personality, and strength – and her recent 90th birthday was more than a celebration of age. It was a celebration of life, resilience, and the power of believing in someone.
The year before her birthday, things looked very different. Doreen became seriously unwell and spent time in hospital. For those who know and love her, it was a frightening time. There were moments when her team feared they might lose her. Yet Doreen, who has often been described as having “nine lives,” showed once again just how strong she is.
It was during this time that Assistant Locality Manager, Caroline Ellis, was closely supporting Doreen in hospital. Caroline, who has worked alongside Doreen for many years, knew just how much she loved celebrations and being surrounded by people. With hope, determination, and a deep understanding of what motivates Doreen, Caroline made her a promise –
make it to 90, and we’ll throw you the biggest party imaginable.
Doreen did exactly that.
When she returned home to Rhydderch House, she was welcomed with decorations, smiles, and a heartfelt “welcome home” celebration. Quiet at first, she took everything in. Then, with perfect timing, she asked the question everyone was hoping for:
When’s my party?
Planning Doreen’s 90th became a labour of love. Led by Caroline and the team, every detail was carefully thought through to reflect Doreen’s wishes and needs. A local, accessible venue was chosen so everyone could attend comfortably. Doreen made her preferences very clear: pink decorations (“because pink makes the boys wink”), a live singer, and something a little different to make the day truly special.
The team arranged a caricature artist so guests could take home a keepsake and Doreen’s portrait now hangs proudly in her bedroom. Friends from other Discovery homes were invited too, because, as Caroline strongly believes, people need friendships beyond their team – relationships that bring connection, belonging, and shared joy.
On the day, around 60 people filled the room. Music, laughter, and celebration surrounded Doreen, and she loved every moment.
In the days that followed, she spoke about her party again and again. Despite living with dementia, the memory stayed with her – a powerful reminder of how meaningful moments can leave a lasting imprint.
Doreen has lived at Rhydderch House for over 17 years. Sisters, nieces, and family members have shared the home over time, making it a place rich with history and connection. Long-standing team members, some with over 15 years in Discovery, describe the house as a family -one led by strong women, strong relationships, and genuine care.
For Caroline, moments like this are what matter most. She believes in being ambitious for the people supported at Rhydderch House – creating opportunities, not routines; memories, not limitations. Her approach is simple but powerful:
if the people we support are happy, then we’ve done our job right
And the ambition doesn’t stop at 90. The next dream? A holiday abroad -because Caroline is determined that Doreen continues to live a full, joyful life with no regrets.
Doreen reminds us that age is not a barrier to celebration, dreams, or dignity. With the right support and the right people beside you, life can remain rich, meaningful, and full of possibility.
And at Rhydderch House, thanks to leaders like Caroline and a team who truly care, those possibilities are made real – every single day.