The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Christian

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Every parent wants to know that their child will always be cared for, no matter what the future holds.

For Christian’s mother, that hope became a reality through Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

She recalls how, just a few months after Christian was born, she and her husband began to notice that he wasn’t developing in the same way as other children. Following a series of medical tests, Christian was diagnosed with a disability.

Like so many families, they adapted their lives around him, making sure he was always surrounded by love, support, and every opportunity to thrive.

Planning for the Future

As the years passed and Christian’s parents grew older, they began asking themselves a question that many families eventually face:

“Who will care for Christian in the years to come?”

Wanting to ensure he would always have the support he needed, they reached out to Id-Dar tal-Providenza to explore the possibility of him becoming a resident.

It was a significant decision, but one made entirely out of love.

Christian moved into the residence on Valentine’s Day, a date his mother will never forget.

Missing Him, But Knowing He’s Happy

Christian’s mother admits she still misses him every day.

Although she visits him regularly, the family home isn’t quite the same without him there.

Yet those feelings are outweighed by something even more important.

Peace of mind.

Seeing Christian happy, active, and surrounded by people who genuinely care for him reassures her that moving to Id-Dar tal-Providenza was the right decision.

She knows he isn’t simply living somewhere safe, he’s living somewhere he can enjoy life, make friends, and continue growing as a person.

A Place Filled with Care

When speaking about life at Id-Dar tal-Providenza, Christian’s mother can’t help but smile when the conversation turns to Fr Martin Micallef.

She speaks warmly about his enthusiasm and the positive energy he brings to the residence, describing him as someone whose passion is reflected throughout the home.

For her, that spirit is mirrored by the entire team, whose compassion and dedication help create an environment where residents are treated with dignity, kindness, and genuine affection every day.

A Future Built on Love

Christian’s story is one shared by many families.

It is a story of difficult decisions, unconditional love, and the comfort that comes from knowing a loved one is exactly where they need to be.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon will take place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

Every donation helps Id-Dar tal-Providenza continue providing residents like Christian with more than just a place to live, it provides a home, opportunities to enjoy life, and the support to build a brighter future.

For Christian’s mother, there is no greater comfort than seeing her son smiling.

And in the end, that’s all any parent could ever wish for.

Players Promote Volleyball Marathon with TEQ Volleyball In Valletta!

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With just days to go before the BOV Volleyball Marathon, the players’ focus isn’t only on preparing for the 53-hour challenge.

It’s also about raising awareness and supporting the cause that brings everyone together.

Being part of the BOV Volleyball Marathon means much more than stepping onto the court. Every player is encouraged to become an ambassador for Id-Dar tal-Providenza, helping to raise both funds and awareness in the lead-up to the event.

TEQ Volleyball Takes Centre Stage

On Saturday morning, Team BOV organised a TEQ Volleyball showcase in the heart of Valletta, right opposite Parliament.

TEQ Volleyball is a fast-paced sport played on a uniquely curved table, combining elements of volleyball and table tennis. Players use volleyball-style touches to keep the ball in play, making it an exciting and highly skill-based game that is growing in popularity around the world.

What started as a team initiative quickly turned into a wider community effort, with players from several of the other marathon teams joining in to support the event.

The result was a vibrant morning that attracted the attention of locals and visitors alike, introducing many people to the exciting sport of TEQ Volleyball while raising funds for Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Raising Awareness One Rally at a Time

Team BOV captain Dalton Caruana explained that the initiative had three clear objectives: to raise awareness about the upcoming BOV Volleyball Marathon, collect much-needed donations for Id-Dar tal-Providenza, and strengthen the bond between teammates ahead of the marathon.

Throughout the morning, passers-by stopped to watch the action, learn more about the event, and contribute whatever they could to support the cause.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will be added to the funds raised by the marathon players over the past few months and presented during the closing ceremony of this year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon.

More Than Athletes

While the public will see the players take on the remarkable 53-hour volleyball marathon between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali, much of their commitment happens long before the first serve.

Over the past months, the athletes have balanced demanding training sessions with fundraising initiatives, community events, and awareness campaigns—all in support of the residents of Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

It’s this dedication, both on and off the court, that makes the BOV Volleyball Marathon such a special event.

Thank You for Your Support

A special thank you goes to Luxol Football Club for supporting the initiative by making their TEQ table available for the event.

Partnerships like these demonstrate the incredible community spirit behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon and show what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause.

With the countdown now well underway, every rally played, every euro donated, and every person who helps spread the word brings us one step closer to another unforgettable edition of the BOV Volleyball Marathon.

The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Tara

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Sometimes, a name seems to capture a person’s spirit perfectly.

Tara’s mother smiles as she explains that the name Tara comes from Irish and means “Star of the Sea.” To her, there couldn’t be a more fitting name for her daughter.

It’s a name that reflects the light and warmth Tara brings to the people around her.

A Life That Changed Unexpectedly

Tara was born like any other healthy baby.

It was only as she began to grow that her parents realised something wasn’t quite right.

Doctors discovered that Tara needed surgery. She would eventually undergo three major operations, but following one of them, complications led to a coma. As a result, Tara suffered a brain injury that changed the course of her life forever.

Like so many families facing the unexpected, Tara’s parents focused on one thing above all else, making sure she had everything she needed.

The whole family came together to support her. Because Tara required so much care and attention, other relatives stepped in to help look after her older sister, ensuring the entire family remained strong during an incredibly difficult time.

Not Leaving Home… Finding Another One

Years later came another emotional decision.

When the time arrived for Tara to move to Id-Dar tal-Providenza, her family never saw it as saying goodbye.

Instead, they describe it as moving from one home to another.

That simple way of looking at it says everything about the trust they placed in the people who would become part of Tara’s everyday life.

Today, Tara truly sees Id-Dar tal-Providenza as her home.

In fact, whenever she spends a night with her mother, she often asks a question that brings a smile to her family’s faces:

“Am I going back to Siġġiewi?”

For her, returning to Id-Dar tal-Providenza isn’t leaving home.

It’s going home.

Love That Feels Like Family

One of the things Tara’s mother is most grateful for is the way the staff care for the residents.

She describes a level of compassion that goes far beyond professional responsibility.

The love, patience, and dedication shown every day are the kind of qualities people often associate with family, not with strangers.

Knowing that Tara is surrounded by people who genuinely care for her gives the entire family something that cannot be measured: complete peace of mind.

A Place Where Everyone Belongs

Tara’s story is a beautiful reminder that home isn’t simply a building.

It’s a place where you’re accepted, cared for, and loved.

For Tara, Id-Dar tal-Providenza has become exactly that, a home where she can continue to live with dignity, security, and happiness, surrounded by people who have become an extension of her own family.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon takes place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

Every donation helps ensure that residents like Tara continue to receive not only exceptional care, but also something every person deserves—a place where they truly belong.

Because at Id-Dar tal-Providenza, care goes beyond meeting needs.

It creates a family.

The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Owen

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Life has a way of coming full circle. For Owen’s family, that couldn’t be more true.

Growing up, they regularly supported Id-Dar tal-Providenza, never imagining that one day the organisation would become such an important part of their own lives.

Today, Owen is one of the many residents who proudly calls Id-Dar tal-Providenza home.

A Family That Never Stopped Caring

When Owen was born, his family learned that he had cerebral palsy.

As he grew up, everyday life came with its own challenges. His uncle remembers how Owen would often lose his balance and fall, yet he always faced life with determination and a smile.

Over the years, the family stood by him every step of the way.

Life took another difficult turn when Owen lost his father. Later, as his mother began living with dementia, the family once again found themselves adapting to changing circumstances.

Without hesitation, Owen’s uncle stepped in.

He cared for Owen as if he were his own son, describing him as someone who brought nothing but joy into his life.

A New Home That Quickly Felt Familiar

As time went on, Owen’s uncle knew he had to think about what would be best for his nephew in the years ahead.

That journey led them to Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Like many families before them, there were understandable emotions surrounding the move. But those concerns quickly disappeared.

Owen settled into his new home almost immediately.

Seeing him so comfortable and happy reassured the entire family that they had made the right decision.

A Life Filled with Opportunity

Today, Owen enjoys a full and active life at Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

His days are filled with activities, outings, and social events that keep him engaged and connected with those around him.

He also benefits from specialised services, including pool therapy, which has helped improve his strength and overall wellbeing.

For his family, the greatest joy is seeing Owen continue to grow, enjoy new experiences, and live each day surrounded by people who genuinely care about him.

When Kindness Comes Full Circle

One reflection from Owen’s uncle is particularly moving.

He remembers how, throughout the years, their family always made donations to Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

At the time, they were simply supporting a cause they believed in.

They never imagined that, years later, their own family would directly benefit from the kindness and generosity of so many others.

It’s a powerful reminder that every act of generosity has the potential to change someone’s life, sometimes in ways we could never predict.

Helping More Families Like Owen’s

Owen’s story is one of love, resilience, and the incredible difference a caring community can make.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon takes place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

By supporting the volleyball marathon, you’re helping residents like Owen continue to enjoy lives filled with opportunity, friendship, and dignity, while giving families the reassurance that their loved ones are exactly where they need to be.

Because sometimes, the kindness we give today becomes the support we need tomorrow.

The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Michelle

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Every family reaches moments in life that are filled with emotion, uncertainty, and hope.

For Michelle’s family, one of those moments was watching her begin a new chapter at Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Michelle’s story began before she was even born. Towards the end of her pregnancy, her mother contracted German measles, something that would later affect Michelle’s development.

As she grew older, her parents began noticing that she wasn’t reaching the same developmental milestones as other children. It was then that they realised Michelle would need additional support throughout her life.

Like so many families, they embraced that challenge with unconditional love.

A New Chapter, Not a Goodbye

In this touching video, Michelle’s younger brother reflects on the day she moved to Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Rather than seeing it as losing a family member, he compares it to a daughter getting married and moving into her own home.

It was an emotional milestone, but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

That perspective says so much about the family’s love for Michelle. They weren’t saying goodbye, they were helping her take the next step in life.

Putting the Resident First

One memory has stayed with Michelle’s brother ever since.

During the initial meeting before Michelle moved into the residence, he noticed that almost every question was directed at Michelle herself.

The conversation wasn’t about the family. It was about her.

Her wishes, her personality, her routines, and what would make her feel comfortable.

That moment showed the family exactly how Id-Dar tal-Providenza approaches every resident: not simply as someone who needs care, but as an individual whose voice, choices, and dignity matter.

It immediately gave them confidence that Michelle would be treated with the respect she deserved.

More Than a Place to Live

Today, Michelle enjoys a life filled with opportunities, friendships, and experiences that help her continue to grow.

For her family, Id-Dar tal-Providenza has provided so much more than accommodation.

It has given Michelle a place where she feels valued, supported, and encouraged to enjoy life to the fullest.

Her brother speaks with immense gratitude on behalf of the entire family, not simply because Michelle has somewhere safe to live, but because she has been given the opportunity to build a rich, fulfilling life surrounded by people who genuinely care for her.

Helping More Families Like Michelle’s

Michelle’s story reminds us that true care is about far more than meeting someone’s basic needs.

It’s about helping people flourish.

It’s about creating opportunities, encouraging independence, and ensuring every person is treated with dignity and respect.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon takes place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

By supporting the volleyball marathon, you’re helping ensure that residents like Michelle can continue enjoying not just a place to live, but a place where they can truly belong.

Because everyone deserves the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life.

The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Adrian

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Every family wants the very best for the people they love.

For Adrian’s family, that meant making one of the hardest decisions they would ever face. One that, looking back today, they know was the right one.

In this heartfelt story, Adrian’s younger sisters reflect on a lifetime of memories and the close bond they have always shared with their brother.

From the very beginning, their mother made one thing clear: Adrian was never to be treated any differently from anyone else. He was simply their brother, an important part of the family, and someone who deserved every opportunity to enjoy life to the fullest.

An Unbreakable Bond

Adrian also shared an incredibly close relationship with his father.

The two were inseparable, and after his father’s passing, Adrian continued living with his mother, who remained his main source of support for many years.

Eventually, as his mother moved into a care home, the family once again found themselves facing difficult decisions about Adrian’s future.

He spent some time living with one of his sisters before the family made the decision for him to move to Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

It wasn’t an easy choice.

Like many families, they wanted to make absolutely sure they were doing what was best for someone they loved so deeply.

A Place That Quickly Felt Like Home

Any concerns they had began to disappear almost immediately.

From the moment Adrian arrived at Id-Dar tal-Providenza, he settled in with remarkable ease. He embraced his new surroundings, made new friends, and quickly began to feel at home.

Although he no longer lives under the same roof as his sisters, nothing has changed about their relationship. They continue to be there for one another, sharing the same love and support that has always brought them together as a family.

From Guilt to Gratitude

Adrian’s sisters openly admit that, despite seeing how well he settled into his new home, they initially struggled with feelings of guilt.

They even wondered whether their parents would have been upset by the decision they had made.

Today, however, they see things very differently.

Looking back, they believe that Id-Dar tal-Providenza gave Adrian exactly what he needed: an environment specifically designed to support him, encourage his independence, and allow him to enjoy a fulfilling life.

Above all, they speak with enormous appreciation for the staff, whose dedication, compassion, and genuine care have made all the difference.

Their commitment goes far beyond providing support; they create a place where residents feel valued, respected, and truly at home.

A Home Built on Care

Adrian’s story is one shared by many families.

Sometimes, the hardest decision becomes the one that brings the greatest peace of mind.

Knowing that a loved one is not only safe but genuinely happy is something every family hopes for, and for Adrian’s sisters, that is exactly what Id-Dar tal-Providenza has given them.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon will take place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

Every donation made during the volleyball marathon helps ensure that residents like Adrian continue to receive the exceptional care, opportunities, and sense of belonging that make Id-Dar tal-Providenza so special.

Because sometimes, the greatest gift you can give a family isn’t just support—it’s the reassurance that their loved one is exactly where they belong.

 

 

 

 

Happy World Volleyball Day

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Today, we join millions of people around the world in celebrating World Volleyball Day, a sport that for us has the unique ability to bring people together, inspire teamwork, and create lifelong friendships.

To us volleyball is about much more than winning matches. It’s about trust, resilience, communication, and supporting one another, values that extend far beyond the game itself.

Because those same values are at the heart of the BOV Volleyball Marathon in aid of Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Every year, dozens of dedicated athletes commit themselves to one extraordinary challenge: playing volleyball continuously for 53 hours. But while the event is an incredible sporting achievement, its true purpose goes far beyond what happens on the court.

The BOV Volleyball Marathon is about bringing an entire community together to support the residents of Id-Dar tal-Providenza. It is about volunteers giving their time, sponsors backing a worthy cause, families showing their support, and thousands of people coming together to make a real difference.

We’ve been sharing the stories of many of the remarkable residents who call Id-Dar tal-Providenza home. Their journeys remind us that every point played, every hour completed, and every donation received helps provide opportunities, dignity, care, and a brighter future for people with disabilities and their families.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon will take place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali, where players, volunteers, entertainers, sponsors, and supporters will once again come together for one unforgettable weekend.

So, on this World Volleyball Day, we celebrate not only a sport loved by millions, but also the incredible power it has to unite people behind a common purpose.

Whether you’re one of our athletes, a volunteer, a supporter, or simply someone planning to visit the marathon, thank you for being part of this journey.

Happy World Volleyball Day, we look forward to celebrating with you at the BOV Volleyball Marathon at the MFCC in just over a week!

The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Barbara

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Every family hopes their loved ones will have the opportunity to live a happy, fulfilling life.

For Barbara’s family, that hope has become a reality through Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Barbara has always had a wonderful imagination. Like many children, she grew up loving Disney princesses and animated characters, and to this day, her sister laughs as she recalls how Barbara still compares almost everyone she meets to one of her favourite characters.

It’s one of the many qualities that makes her so special.

A Sister’s Love

Because of the age difference between them, Barbara’s sister says she always felt as though she had a little sister to look after.

She remembers Barbara as a true blessing to their family; someone who brought joy, laughter, and unconditional love into their lives.

Barbara’s parents shared that same devotion.

Recognising her needs from an early age, her father, who worked as a teacher, made a remarkable decision. He changed jobs to work at the Guardian Angel School, allowing him to spend more time with Barbara and be actively involved in her daily life and development.

It was a decision made entirely out of love.

A New Beginning

Life changed unexpectedly when Barbara’s father suddenly passed away.

As her mother grew older, the family knew they needed to start planning for Barbara’s future.

Like so many families, it was an emotional decision.

When they first visited Id-Dar tal-Providenza, however, they were immediately struck by the warmth of the environment and the dedication of the staff. Seeing so many people committed to the wellbeing of the residents gave them confidence that Barbara would be surrounded by the care and support she deserved.

Living Life to the Fullest

Today, Barbara is thriving.

Since moving to Id-Dar tal-Providenza, her life has become even richer with opportunities to explore new interests, make friends, and enjoy experiences that bring her happiness.

She now plays in the residence’s band, attends Zumba classes, and takes part in a wide variety of activities that keep her active, engaged, and smiling.

For her family, the greatest comfort is knowing that Barbara isn’t simply safe.

She’s happy.

A Family That Keeps Growing

Barbara’s sister describes Id-Dar tal-Providenza as much more than a residence.

It has become Barbara’s family.

And while her own family continues to be by her side every step of the way, they now have the reassurance of knowing she is surrounded every day by people who genuinely care for her.

As her sister beautifully puts it, Id-Dar tal-Providenza has become Barbara’s family, while her natural family has become her second family.

It’s a powerful reminder that family isn’t only defined by where you come from, it can also be found in the people who care for you, encourage you, and help you live life to the fullest.

Help Us Continue Changing Lives

Stories like Barbara’s show the incredible difference that Id-Dar tal-Providenza makes, not only for its residents but also for the families who entrust their loved ones to its care.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon takes place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

By supporting the volleyball marathon, you’re helping ensure that residents like Barbara can continue enjoying a life filled with friendship, opportunity, and happiness—and giving their families the priceless gift of peace of mind.

The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet John Paul

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Every family’s journey is different, but they all have one thing in common: the hope that their loved one will always be safe, happy, and surrounded by people who care.

John Paul’s story is one that many families can relate to.

Just 48 hours after he was born, John Paul experienced complications that resulted in a lifelong disability. In this touching video, his brother reflects on the family’s journey and the unconditional love their parents showed throughout his life.

Like so many parents, they devoted themselves to caring for their son and never imagined a day when someone else would take on that responsibility.

A Difficult Decision

As the years passed and John Paul’s parents reached their late eighties, they knew they had to make plans for his future.

It wasn’t an easy decision.

The family still remembers the day John Paul moved into Id-Dar tal-Providenza. His brother recalls the emotion of that moment and one simple question that has stayed with him ever since.

“This is my home now?”

Those few words captured the uncertainty that comes with such a life-changing transition, for both John Paul and the people who love him.

A New Chapter Filled with Opportunity

Looking back today, the family sees that move in a very different light.

In fact, John Paul’s brother admits that had they known just how positive the experience would be, they would have made the decision much sooner.

Today, John Paul enjoys a full and active life at Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

His days are filled with activities, outings, events, and opportunities to learn, socialise, and enjoy new experiences. He now lives in an apartment alongside other residents, sharing everyday life much like a group of friends living together.

For his family, seeing him so happy, independent, and surrounded by a caring community has brought enormous comfort and peace of mind.

More Than a Residence

For John Paul’s brother, Id-Dar tal-Providenza is much more than a residential home.

It is a place that gives families reassurance, knowing that their loved ones are cared for with dignity, respect, and genuine affection every single day.

He believes there is simply no way to measure the impact the residence has on the lives of its residents and their families.

Help Us Continue Changing Lives

John Paul’s story is just one of many that show the lasting difference Id-Dar tal-Providenza makes every day.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon takes place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

By supporting the volleyball marathon, you’re helping residents like John Paul continue living full, meaningful lives while giving their families something priceless—peace of mind.

Because sometimes, the greatest gift isn’t simply finding somewhere to live.

It’s finding a place that truly feels like home.

The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Sarah

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Every resident at Id-Dar tal-Providenza has a story that reminds us why the BOV Volleyball Marathon matters.

Sarah’s story is one of unconditional love, difficult decisions, and the reassurance that comes from knowing someone you love is surrounded by care and compassion.

Sarah was born with a disability after experiencing a lack of oxygen at birth. In this heartfelt video, we meet her mother and twin sister as they reflect on Sarah’s journey and the many special moments they have shared as a family.

Among those memories is one that Sarah’s mother still treasures today: the first time Sarah called her “Mum.” It’s a moment that has stayed with her ever since and one she recalls with great emotion.

The Hardest Decision a Parent Can Make

Like so many parents, Sarah’s mother always believed she would be able to care for her daughter herself.

She never imagined a day when that might no longer be possible.

But as circumstances changed, she realised that Sarah needed the kind of support that only a dedicated residential home could provide.

That was when Id-Dar tal-Providenza became part of their family’s story.

While Sarah quickly embraced her new surroundings and settled into life at the residence, her mother admits that accepting the change was far more difficult for her.

Knowing you are doing the right thing doesn’t always make it easy.

A Place Where Sarah Can Thrive

Today, Sarah lives at the Warda Residence, where she enjoys a caring environment, meaningful friendships, and activities that help her live life to the fullest.

She also benefits from services such as pool therapy, which plays an important role in supporting her wellbeing and quality of life.

For Sarah’s family, seeing her happy, active, and well cared for has brought them comfort and peace of mind.

One moment, in particular, meant everything to her mother.

With the support of the staff at Id-Dar tal-Providenza, Sarah created a handmade card for her. It was a simple gesture, but one that filled her mother with emotion and perfectly reflected the care, encouragement, and love that residents receive every day.

Watch the video to hear Sarah’s mother describe what that moment meant to her in her own words.

Help Us Continue Changing Lives

Stories like Sarah’s are the reason the BOV Volleyball Marathon exists.

Every donation helps ensure that residents continue to receive not only exceptional care but also opportunities to grow, learn, and enjoy meaningful experiences every day.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon will take place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

By supporting the volleyball marathon, you’re helping families like Sarah’s find reassurance, hope, and the knowledge that their loved ones are in a place they can truly call home.

Together, we can continue making a difference—one resident, one family, and one act of generosity at a time.