Residents at Swaffham’s Meadow House nursing home engaged after meeting there earlier this year

Romance has blossomed for two residents at a Swaffham nursing home who are now engaged after meeting there earlier this year.

Officials at Meadow House say there was an instant attraction between Tammy and Damian, who are both in their early 40s.

So staff and residents were delighted when Damian popped the question, presenting Tammy with a diamond ring.

Home manager Joanna Jankowska said there had been a “remarkable transformation” in Damian, who has myotonic disorder which affects muscle function and mobility, since he arrived at Meadow House earlier this year.

“Damian was in another care home, and he hadn’t been out of his room for months, he spent most of his time in bed and was very depressed,” she said.

“Now he takes part in all our activities and is always one of the last to bed, he and Tammy sit up talking for hours. They both love music and parties.”

Tammy, who has cerebral palsy, has lived at Meadow House for the past five years.

“Tammy is very sociable and there was an instant spark between her and Damian,” Jo said.

“The two of them talk about anything and everything, they just want to spend all their time together.

“It has been wonderful for us all to see their blossoming romance.”

Damian initially confided in his auntie that he intended to ask Tammy to marry him, before asking her to help pick out the perfect ring.

He proposed in front of all the residents at the Norwich Road home.

Damian’s auntie said: ‘’I truly cannot believe the progress my nephew has made since being at Meadow House.”

She said he had gone from spending most of his time in bed to sitting in a chair and hardly ever being in his room.

“He is joining in with things and enjoys joking with the staff,” she said.

“I cannot thank them enough for improving his quality of life so much in such a small amount of time.’’

Meadow House provides residential, nursing and respite care, as well as specialist care for younger adults with disabilities, many who have multiple sclerosis (MS).