In June, Rosemary Parrott, a resident at Oak Lodge Bupa Care Home in Southampton, completed her fourth book, Ships Passing. The journey to finish this project has been long and filled with challenges, but Rosemary’s determination and support from loved ones helped her achieve her goal.
The Road to Completion
Rosemary’s book project was nearly finished back in 2018. However, personal losses, including the death of her husband, and ongoing health issues forced her to pause the project.
In 2023, Rosemary was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and it seemed like completing the book would no longer be possible.
But with the encouragement of her daughter-in-law and the palliative care team at Oak Lodge, Rosemary was able to push through and complete Ships Passing.
A Celebration of Achievement
On June 4, the book was published by Magic Flute Publications, marking a significant moment in Rosemary’s life. To celebrate her success, the team at Oak Lodge gathered in her room, presenting her with flowers and a glass of non-alcoholic red wine.
The support and recognition from her fellow residents and caregivers brought her immense joy.
Rosemary expressed her disbelief at the achievement, saying, “After so many ups and downs, I can’t really believe it has happened.”
A Lifelong Passion for Poetry and Art
Rosemary’s love for poetry began during her time at Guernsey Ladies’ College, where she studied A-Level English and was introduced to The Six Sonnets by Gerard Manley Hopkins.
This sparked a passion for writing that led to the publication of her first book, Sonata in the Key of Life, in 2000. Over the years, she continued to write and release more books, becoming well-known for her poems and artwork.
Rosemary also created the illustrations for her books, many of which were inspired by photos she took on cruise holidays. Although health issues, such as shaking hands, made it difficult for her to paint, she adapted by switching to sketches done with pencils.
A Testament to Resilience
Corin, the home manager at Oak Lodge Bupa Care Home, praised Rosemary for her strength and talent, calling her “a wonderful, talented and humble lady.”
She noted that all the poems and drawings in Ships Passing were created by Rosemary herself, despite the obstacles she faced.
“It was lovely to be able to see her writing and drawing as she worked on this offering,” Corin said, recalling the emotional moment when Rosemary thought it might be her last book due to her diagnosis.
Rosemary’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of following one’s passion, no matter the challenges life may throw your way.
Rosemary Parrott’s achievement in completing Ships Passing highlights the power of resilience and support from loved ones.
Despite facing personal hardships and health challenges, Rosemary’s love for poetry and art pushed her to finish her work. Her story proves that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and make them a reality.
