For twenty-four years, she was always there, the House Mother of PCC: Joyce Twenewaa,
usually called “Auntie Joyce” at PCC.
She started her work at PCC in 2002. Her own four children were already a bit older by then, which gave her the space and opportunity to care for the residents at PCC.
Sadly enough, in the years that followed, her sons passed away, both quite suddenly—what a sorrow.
Fortunately, she did have, and still has, her two daughters, who have both since become mothers themselves, meaning Joyce can now be a very happy grandmother!
In December 2004, Emmanuella came to PCC, and from Day 1, Joyce was her caregiver, or actually more like her “mother,” the only mother Emmanuella has ever known. And that remained the case until the day of Joyce’s retirement.
Another resident, Philomena, then decided to go to Joyce herself and has helped her care for Emmanuella all these years. Together, they form a small, close-knit family!
Although there was no clarity regarding Joyce’s exact age for quite some time, it was clear that she had by now reached the Ghanaian retirement age of 60 (well over). Joyce’s retirement date was ultimately set for October 1st of this year.
So, September 30, 2026, was her last working day! That is why we decided to organize the annual Caregivers Day celebration—which is very popular at PCC—on that very day. This made the day extra special this year, because the entire PCC could say goodbye to Joyce, our House Mother, in a manner befitting her, during this festive day.
Joyce was a bit apprehensive about her retirement and initially felt little inclination for a farewell party, but fortunately, together we were able to find a format that made Joyce very happy. During the sports and games morning, it was always Joyce’s role to hand out a delicious bottle of soda along with a pack of tasty cookies to all residents and caregivers during the break.
That is how it went this time too, but now all the children and caregivers formed a large circle around Joyce and she received a beautiful “aubade“.
Everyone sang beautiful songs especially for Joyce, in loud voices, with lyrics of great gratitude and much appreciation. Joyce was visibly moved.
Every Caregivers Day, there is a special meal in the evening for all caregivers, to thank them extra for their unwavering 24/7 commitment to all residents of PCC! It was a delicious fried rice and chicken meal; a real treat!
During the festivities, of course, there is not only eating, but also dancing and, above all, lots of fun, with games like musical chairs, a lucky dip, and challenges to imitate someone from PCC as best as possible; fun and enjoyment are guaranteed!
During that festive evening, we also fittingly thanked Joyce—with speeches, a cheque, and several beautiful gifts from both the PCC Board and all the caregivers—for all those years of great dedication to PCC, to all residents, and to all the caregivers.
She was the House Mother of PCC for 24 years, with all kinds of special duties that she always took upon herself very seriously.
Everyone respected her and now wholeheartedly wishes her a well-deserved retirement.
Dear Joyce, for years you were one of the defining faces in our Community, a monument of PCC, and you always carried out all the work with great love and dedication.
That is why everyone at PCC is now saying:
Joyce, thank you very much for everything, may you rest in peace!
May God bless you!