Cracked Eggs and Full Hearts: A DRT Easter Reflection from Alpine View
- DT Treasurer
- Apr 20
- 2 min read
By RDRTh Trina Cox
As a Diversional and Recreational Therapist, I’ve had the privilege of being part of many meaningful moments — but this Easter, something really special happened at Alpine View Care Centre that I will remember forever.
We decided to set up a chicken hatchery in the lead-up to Easter. The idea sparked so much excitement — not just among residents, but with staff and visitors too. Every day, we were glued to the incubator, waiting, watching, hoping. One day, when we noticed a crack in an egg, everyone gathered around, breath held, expecting to witness new life.
Unfortunately, none of the eggs hatched. And yes, we were disappointed. But the experience wasn’t lost — in fact, it became something even more meaningful. Two of our residents who used to have chicken farms took the lead, sharing their knowledge and memories. It was powerful to see how their experiences became a teaching moment, restoring their sense of value and purpose.
Even though the eggs didn’t hatch, we were gifted four baby chicks by one of our incredible volunteers (the same one who helped us set up the hatchery). These little chicks arrived just in time for Easter — and became instant stars of the centre.
Residents lit up when holding them. Staff softened as they checked in on their care. And visitors couldn’t stop smiling. One morning, a resident burst into tears while holding a chick, and that got us all going. It was emotional in the most beautiful way — a reminder of how powerful these moments of connection can be.
We had preschool children visit for an Easter Egg Hunt, and they were in awe. Watching them gently cradle the chicks in their hands was something truly special. It was intergenerational joy, pure and unfiltered.
What struck me most was how this whole experience brought us together. The shared excitement, the caring, the storytelling, the hope — it created a kind of unity that you don’t always find in everyday routines. We had staff step up to care for the chicks over Easter. One is adopting them permanently, and another is fostering them for a few weeks.
We're already planning to try the hatchery again in spring. We’ve learned so much, and next time, we’ll do things differently. But one thing remains the same: it’s these kinds of creative, purpose-driven experiences that make Diversional and Recreational Therapy so powerful.
This Easter has reminded me that even when things don’t go to plan, there is always new life, new learning, and unexpected joy waiting just around the corner.
If you’re a fellow DRTh thinking about trying something like this — do it. Take the chance. The rewards are more than worth it.
Happy Easter from all of us at Alpine View Care Centre — and from our fluffy little friends too.
With gratitude and joy,
Trina Cox, RDRTh
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