A resident at an Essex care home fulfilled his livelong dream learning how to write a special letter to his daughter. 

Joe Miechielsens, 89, worked the land during the war and never learnt how to write at school. 

Thanks to the help of the team at the Ashbrook Court care home in Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey, he caught up on learning the skill. 

His goal was to write a special letter to his daughter Julie Arnold to say thank you for everything she has done for him and express his gratitude. 

Progress - Joe's progress was capturedProgress - Joe's progress was captured (Image: Springup PR)

The team at Ashbrook offered regular writing lessons and Joe was encouraged by staff and fellow residents to achieve his goal. 

Daughter Julie, a lifestyle coordinator at a home in Chingford, described how she was overcome with emotion at the ceremony. 

“I thought I was going there for a meeting but when I got there they took me into the cinema room and the atmosphere was buzzing. 

“I was just completely overwhelmed, I can’t describe it. We watched the video showing dad learning to write and he gave me some flowers and the book that he’d been practicing in. 

“It’s such a simple thing to most people and something you just take for granted that you can do. The whole day was perfect and it is something I’ll never forget.” 

“This letter means the world to me and knowing the journey Dad went through to write it makes it even more special.” 

Family - Joe and Julie shared a special momentFamily - Joe and Julie shared a special moment (Image: Springup PR)

Joe’s progress was documented through workbooks and videos, which were shown at the emotional ceremony. 

Home Manager Jonathane Ribeiro outlined how the emotion on the occasion was overwhelming and that everyone in attendance was visibly moved by the experience. 

“Joe's journey is a testament to the power of determination and the incredible support system we have here at Ashbrook Court,” he said. 

“Seeing Joe present his letter to Julie was a moment of pure joy and pride for all of us. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do. 

“We pride ourselves on nurturing a community where residents are encouraged to pursue their passions. 

“Joe's story has inspired everyone in our home, showing that it's never too late to pursue a dream.”