Gerald Hillary, 84, worked in the women’s clothing industry for six decades and collaborated with renowned designer Dame Vivienne Westwood.
Now residing at The Spinney, a dementia specialist care home in Forest View in Chingford, the care team learned of his remarkable career during their chats with him.
Gerald, originally from Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire, said: “I started dressmaking as a schoolboy.
“It was only supposed to be a temporary job, but I ended up staying as I loved the atmosphere and the environment.
“I produced ladies clothing for 60 years, my speciality was creating crazy, unconventional clothes, that were a little bit risqué.”
He shared fond memories of working with Dame Vivienne: “I enjoyed my time working with her, she was wonderfully eccentric and always very friendly.”
Samantha Carey, lifestyle coordinator at The Spinney, said: “It’s fascinating to hear Gerald talk about his career as a dressmaker.
“He is living with dementia and struggles with memory loss but lights up when he shares stories of his working life.”
Gerald enjoys spending time outdoors in the garden and loves outings in the care home’s minibus.
He is sociable with his fellow residents and enjoys entertainment nights and movie screenings.
Lisa Wright, home manager at The Spinney, said: “Getting to know our residents is a crucial part of our job, we get to learn about their life experiences and discover what’s important to them.
“Gerald has had an extraordinary career, and we feel privileged that he’s shared his stories with us.”
The Spinney, a 43-bed care facility, provides residential, specialist dementia, and end-of-life care.
It was rated ‘good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and won a Great British Care Award in 2023 for dignity in care.
