Coronavirus: Daughter sends dad message of love through Melton care home window

Rachel Lehner-Mear, was determined to see her father, Derek Mear, but strict social distancing measures because of the coronavirus outbreak meant she has been unable to visit him as normal.

The Amwell, which offers residential, dementia and respite care at its home in Ashfordby Road, closed its doors to non-essential visitors in mid-March before the government introduced wider public shutdown measures.

However, Rachel contacted staff at the home and asked if it would possible to show him messages which she had written down on a notepad from a roadside window looking into one of the venue’s lounges.

Tracy Heyes, care home manager at The Amwell, readily agreed and an emotional video of the meeting was recorded and later posted on Facebook, resulting in dozens of heart-felt comments by users.

Pointing the notebook at her father in similar circumstances to the scene between Keira Knightley and Andrew Lincoln in the 1993 film Love Actually, Rachel, said: “I wanted you to know that we miss you. We are thinking about you lots. Hope your leg gets better soon. Don’t forget to listen to Radio 3 and you can watch TV. We love you.”

Sophie Hermes, activities co-ordinator at The Amwell, said: “It was the most beautiful scene when Derek’s daughter visited.

“It was very emotional and I’m sure you can hear the emotions in the video.

“During this difficult time, this shows how amazing a small gesture of love and kindness can be. We are so grateful for the support we are receiving from the family and friends of our residents. We can’t wait to see you all soon.”

Rachel added: “It’s very hard being separated. My dad’s speech has been impacted by a stroke so communication by phone is difficult.

“It meant the world to me to be able to see dad through the window and let him know how much we love him and miss him.”

To watch the video of Rachel visiting her father at The Amwell visit https://www.facebook.com/theamwellcare/videos/251248582549407/