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.

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.

Every resident at Id-Dar tal-Providenza has a unique story, and behind every donation made during the BOV Volleyball Marathon is someone whose life is touched by the generosity of the community.

This is Ivan’s story.

Ivan is 48 years old, and his journey has been one of resilience from the very beginning.

His father recalls how, just days after Ivan was born, doctors confirmed that his son had Down syndrome. Like many parents receiving unexpected news, he remembers the emotions and uncertainty that came with that moment.

Yet, Ivan never allowed his disability to define him.

A Passion for Sport

Sport has always been a huge part of Ivan’s life.

Over the years, he achieved remarkable success, even travelling to the United States to compete where he proudly finished second in a race.

His determination, positivity, and love for sport continue to inspire everyone who meets him.

Finding a Second Home

Life changed when Ivan was 37 years old.

Following the loss of his mother and as his father began facing his own health challenges, the family made the difficult decision for Ivan to move to Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Looking back today, both father and son know it was the right decision.

Ivan speaks warmly about the life he has built at the residence and the friendships he has formed, while his father describes the immense peace of mind that comes from knowing his son is surrounded by people who genuinely care for him and support him every day.

A Familiar Face at the Volleyball Marathon

If you attended last year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon, there’s a good chance you already met Ivan.

He quickly became part of the action, spending plenty of time courtside alongside the players, sharing laughs, encouraging the teams, and even showing off a few volleyball serves of his own.

His enthusiasm was infectious, and he reminded everyone that the volleyball marathon is about much more than fundraising: it’s about bringing people together.

There’s little doubt that visitors to this year’s event will once again spot Ivan enjoying every moment, interacting with the athletes, and creating memories that last long after the final whistle.

Be Part of Ivan’s Story

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

Every donation, every visit, and every show of support helps residents like Ivan continue to enjoy the opportunities, friendships, and quality of life that Id-Dar tal-Providenza provides.

We look forward to welcoming you to the MFCC, where you’ll not only witness an incredible sporting challenge but also meet the remarkable people whose lives your generosity helps transform.