Dianne Parke-Jones joined us at the annual tree trimming event at Kensington Gardens.

Dianne Parke-Jones is an incredibly talented singer and harpist who has travelled North America performing at internationally-renowned opera companies, symphonies and our very own Kensington Gardens.A life-long performer, Dianne also had a very special relationship with her grandfather who always encouraged her to follow her passion. When he passed, she traveled to Ireland and had a beautiful Celtic harp handmade by a local craftsman.

“My family is Irish and the Celtic harp has a very light sound and is a therapeutic instrument. I like to think that I have helped heal a lot of people through my music,” says Dianne.

There is a misconception that the holidays are a sad and lonely time in long-term care. But Kensington is bristling with joyful activity. Dianne first performed at the opening of the Gardens’ north building in 2004 when she was pregnant with her daughter. She has returned to play every year since.

“The energy is very celebratory at the tree trimmings at Kensington. The staff bring down as many residents as possible and everyone takes a turn in decorating the holiday tree. I would bring my daughter, Sarah, almost every Christmas, and Bill O’Neill used to lift her up and let her put up the star on top of the tree. Sarah is 18 years old now.”

Dianne also has a personal connection to Kensington Gardens. “After seeing how well people were being treated here, and when my mother-in-law needed care, we really wanted her to live here. The care was phenomenal. The nurses knew that she liked Welsh singing and would put on singing videos for her to watch, and she would spend a lot of time in the garden. I am very grateful.”

Dianne’s mother-in-law, Josie Jones, lived at Kensington Gardens for nearly two years. This holiday season, we thank everyone who is part of our Kensington family. Your contributions to Kensington’s compassionate care have left a lasting impression on Dianne’s family, and so many others.