IT’S A KNOCKOUT: Aberdeen care home resident goes toe-to-toe with pro boxer Lee McAllister
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: Anthony @ GM10Photo
Aberdeen care home resident, Chris Gibson, 88, has taken to the ring for one last sparring session with Scottish professional boxer, Lee McAllister. Chris, a resident at Renaissance Care’s Jesmond Home in Aberdeen, was a keen boxer in his youth. His passion was sparked by his father, a showman at a travelling carnival, who operated a boxing stall where Chris first got a taste for the sport.
He boxed competitively in his early twenties, although self admittedly to varying degrees of success, entering competitions held by the Gordon Highlanders Territorial Army. Chris estimates that he last entered the ring in 1968 before hanging up his gloves for the next 55 years.
He names Muhammad Ali, Rocky Marciano and Mike Tyson among some of his favourite fighters, admiring them for their “fair fighting style”.
Before the session, Chris said: “I can’t wait to slip the gloves back on and get in the ring. It’s been over fifty years since I’ve done any real boxing, but I still feel the call of it! I’m so glad the staff at Jesmond were able to make my dream become a reality.
“Lee better watch out – I intend on winning this time!”
Our staff work tirelessly to make sure residents are enjoying themselves and engaging in meaningful activities that are important to them
Dawn Gardiner, Jesmond Care Home Manager
Mcallister, nicknamed the Aberdeen Assassin, has held 19 professional titles including six world titles during his illustrious career. He now owns and operates Assassin Health and Fitness Village in Bridge of don, Aberdeen.
Lee said: "It's great to be able to give Chris the opportunity to lace up the gloves and get into the ring one last time. Memories like these can't be taken away.
“At Assassins Health and Fitness Village, we try to support everyone and anyone to get involved, regardless of level of fitness or ability. Well done to Chris for getting involved!”
While Chris’ request to get back in the ring at 88 is certainly an unusual one, it underlines Renaissance Care’s commitment to supporting residents as they live full and active lives within the company’s 17 homes in Scotland.
Activities are central to Renaissance’s wellbeing strategy, with residents encouraged to take part in events that are tailored to their specific needs and interests, helping them remain in high spirits as well as supporting their physical health.
Jesmond manager, Dawn Gardiner, said: “The quality of care is a given at Renaissance Care. While health and wellbeing are priorities, we understand that we are much more than just a care provider.
“We strive to ensure our residents truly feel at home in Jesmond, supporting them to enjoy their golden years however they chose - even if that is going toe-to-toe with a pro boxer at 88!
“Our staff work tirelessly to make sure residents are enjoying themselves and engaging in meaningful activities that are important to them.”
Jesmond Care Home is a purpose-built care home in the Bridge of Don area of Aberdeen, offering 65 spaces for residential and nursing care residents.
The home offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with authentic and mutually caring relationships formed between residents that fosters a nurturing environment, encouraging people to live and thrive during their time at the home.
For further information visit: Jesmond Care Home
