I sit in my study today listening to the rain and think of what a sad few weeks it has being with the loss of two great people that brought so much entertainment, laughter and love to people from many walks of life– I am talking of the late Robin Williams and of course DTA’s close friend Dr Peter Spitzer.
I had great pleasure working with Dr Peter Spitzer at our last Sydney conference and enjoyed sitting with him at lunch and listening to his enthusiasm as to where the role of the Clown Doctors and Laughter Bosses were going both in the hospital and Aged Care settings. The Southern Highlands has lost a wonderful General Practitioner, health professional and friend but while the days may seem dark with our weather the stars shine brighter at night. As the song goes ‘Always look on the bright side of life’. I think both Josie and Kim have summed up his contributions well in this edition of our newsletter.
Conference is coming up quickly so if you have not organised your place now is the time to do so as it is a wonderful opportunity to network with fellow colleagues, listen to what is happening in the many realms of our industry, get to interact with products and speak directly to some of our suppliers at the trade stands and for some even utilise the time to have a well-deserved mini break.
Also this newsletter edition has the information of the upcoming AGM please read this information carefully as a number of positions will be vacated and need members from our association to fill. Also there is a call out for any members that feel a board position may be too much but feel they could work on a small or long project under a portfolio. As Mary Poppins says ‘A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down’ and to many of our clients therapeutic recreation is their medicine we bring participation, involvement, inclusion, laughter and colourful activity to their lives.
On a final note to brighten your day if you have access to a computer this film clip went viral it is of the Diana Isaac Retirement Village in Christchurch, New Zealand, who have proved you’re never too old for anything and recreated a video of a hit song by music producer Pharrell Williams.
You can watch the video here: http://www.smoothfm.com.au/videos/nz-nursing-home-remakes-pharrell-williams-happy-video
I hope it inspires you and brings a little happiness to your day
‘Til next month – Ed