At Orford House, our Coulsdon-based residential care home, resident Jerzy Snigorski has been reminiscing about his life and sharing his insights to mark this year’s International Men’s Day. Jerzy, who has lived at Orford House since August 2024, was born in Poland and when he was just weeks old he, his Mother and Grandfather, were taken by the Russian Army and transported to Siberia where his Mother was made to work in a mill. “When I was young, I never thought I would leave Poland,” said Jerzy. “However, I did and I didn’t return for many years.” For this year’s International Men’s Day, which not only acts as a stage to raise awareness of challenges faced by men, encourage the promotion of positive male role models and promote a more inclusive understanding of masculinity, Jerzy shared his own story to celebrate the positive impact he has had and passed on to his family.
An avid Crystal Palace Football Club and German national team supporter and keen Angler, Jerzy says that the most important life lesson he has learnt so far is to be patient and not to judge other people on their appearance. “To be patient with others is a virtue that helps with understanding, strengthens relationships and leads a person to greater inner peace,” continued Jerzy. “Also, as they saying goes ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’, goes for people as well. “If I could have five minutes with my younger self, I’d say make sure to work hard and get a good education and to make sure to always be affectionate and loving,” added Jerzy.
Jerzy married his Wife, Margaret on 1st October 1966 at St. Dunstan’s Church in Cheam and the pair are proud parents to two Sons and two Grandchildren. “Margaret visits me every day at 
Orford House,” continued Jerzy. “She really is a fantastic, caring and super supportive Wife.” Jerzy took Margaret on their first date back in November 1963, the same day that John F. Kennedy was assassinated. “From what I have read over the years, JFK was a charming, inspiring and charismatic man who, I suppose, will be remembered for many positive things and poignant sayings, especially ‘Ask not what your country can do for you ask what you can do for your country’, added Jerzy.
“My first job was as a Motor Mechanic and I really loved repairing broken tools,” continued Jerzy. “I really should have had a job in Engineering, as I was always good at managing all the maintenance and upkeep at our home and of course all our cars.” Some of Jerzy’s fondest memories is of taking his family on various holidays throughout Europe. “We used to all jump in our Volkswagen caravanette and go off on lots of great family adventures,” said Jerzy. “I thought these holidays were brilliant and helped me to instil in my children that they should be thankful for everything they had, no matter how big, or how small.”
“Jerzy is a real gentleman and a wonderful, kind resident; we are so happy and honoured to be able to care for and support him,” said Michelle Kennett, the Registered Manager at Orford House. “He has so many friends at the care home and so many life stories and experiences that he is always happy to share with us all. It’s very special to be able to spend time with Jerzy, listening to all the tales about his life’s journey, his family and Margaret.”
“The best advise I was given is something I’ve also passed on to my children – if possible, be self-employed and always take chances in life, which is something I’ve very proud to say they listened to,” concluded Jerzy.
Find out more about Orford House care home by calling 020 8660 2875 or emailing [email protected].