Tucked away off the main street in Donnybrook and only a few minutes from Herbert Park is Mary Aikenhead Day Centre. It is situated in the grounds of St. Mary’s, Donnybrook, Dublin 4. For many, particularly for senior citizens living in the surrounding areas, the Centre is a hive of activity as well as a haven of tranquillity.
The Mary Aikenhead Centre is open five days a week and it works in co-operation with statutory and other voluntary agencies. What strikes the onlooker and those involved, is the variety and extent of the activities that take place daily. There is always something going on – lunch is provided daily, outings and celebrations and other events are organised, keep fit classes are offered, also hairdressing and physiotherapy.
Sr. Marie Smyth and her staff and volunteers work tirelessly and with enthusiasm to provide a loving, caring and stimulating environment is which senior citizens can come and relax. For a few hours every day they can enjoy good food, company and activities or they can just sit quietly and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the centre.
One of the many events that people look forward to is the yearly celebration of 90th birthdays. The day begins with Mass is which each 90th year old is called by name, presented with a gift and congratulated by all those who are present. The celebrations continue with a party and a sing song.
The following photographs capture the mood of the celebrations.
Behind Mary Aikenhead Day Centre is the beautiful garden that was opened by President Mary McAleese in2007. The making of the garden was a feat in itself and it has been written about extensively. Further information about it can be found on the website under several headings. It suffices here to state that this garden is a hidden gem, a haven, a place of peace and tranquillity. This garden is well nurtured and cared for and it has matured during the past four years. It is a place to watch the seasons and experience how they change. It is a place to enjoy nature at its best enjoy. It is a place to pray and reflect and relax and just take time out from the hustle and bustle of every day concerns and worries.
Photographs of the garden
The Mary Aikenhead Day Centre aims to foster the well-being of older persons in body, mind, emotions and spirit and to enhance the quality of their lives; to provide a service that fosters the core values of dignity, compassion, justice and respect; and to support the family and carers of the older person. All associated with the centre plays a part in its development. Their contributions are invaluable and without their commitment and their dedication the centre would not be the place it is today. We acknowledge with deep gratitude and thanks the work done by all who are involved and who make Mary Aikenhead Day Centre the wonderful place it is today.
