Scots care home resident has birthday to remember after reuniting with long-lost sister

A Scottish care home resident had a birthday celebration to remember after being reunited with her long-lost sister.

Pauline Dewar, originally from Lochaline in the Highlands, lost touch with her sister Yvonne after moving out of her home and losing her personal belongings, including contact details.

The 74-year-old, now a resident at McKillop Gardens care home, received a surprise phone call on her birthday after staff found Yvonne’s sister on social media.

Determined to help, Pauline’s key worker and social care worker, Karen O’Donnell, alongside colleagues senior social care worker Lisa Gowran and social care assistant Lylah Shenton, made the reunion possible.

“Pauline spoke to her sister twice a week when she lived at home, but after relocating, she sadly lost all means of contacting her,” Ms O’Donnell explained.

Pauline Dewar, originally from Lochaline in the Highlands, aged three. NHS Lanarkshire

The team said they explored several options before contacting the local church in Balintore in the Highlands, where Yvonne lived, and searching social media platforms.

“The breakthrough came when Lylah identified Yvonne’s daughter, Linda, on social media. After sending a message, Linda confirmed Pauline was her aunt and helped pass on contact details to Yvonne,” she added.

A short time later, Yvonne called the care home in a moment that left staff emotional.

Pauline described the call on her birthday as the “best gift she could have asked for”.

“When we handed the phone to Pauline, her face lit up. They chatted for over half an hour, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room,” Ms O’Donnell said.

Since the call, Yvonne has sent a handwritten letter, clothes, and treasured family photos which has brought comfort and joy to Pauline.

“I don’t know how many years it’s been, but it’s been a long, long time,” Pauline said.

“My sister is nine years older than me and has always looked after me when we were younger. It’s so good to connect with her again. The staff here are wonderful — they look after me and are really helpful.”