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‘Door War’ marks new Christmas tradition in Saskatoon care home

SASKATOON – Christmas is about getting in the holiday spirit but it doesn’t always mean you have to play nice. The Porteous Lodge in Saskatoon has declared an all out Christmas “door war” this year, marking a new decorating tradition.

Residents, staff and families have spent hours bringing doors in the long-term care home to life, with the hope that everyone in the home can feel the cheer.

“Christmas is a lonely time for many people, especially our seniors,” said Carmene Doucette, head cook at the Porteous Lodge. “It’s amazing and even those who can’t speak, their eyes smile. And that tells you that they really appreciate it.”

Leena Latafat/Global News

Doucette says the idea came up in a staff meeting and then quickly snowballed into something much bigger. This year, almost all the doors in the building are decorated extensively.

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READ MORE: How holiday traditions in Saskatchewan have evolved

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For Grace Soparlo, it’s about more than just a competition. She says the residents in the long-term care home just want to feel at home and this is the perfect way to spread some cheer.

“I know a lot of people that don’t have the family that I have and I’m so fortunate and I thank God for that,” she said.

“This is home for me now,” she added.

Soparlo’s daughters have been decorating her door for years now, and this year the family is happy to see others taking part.

An entry for this year’s door war at Porteous Lodge. Leena Latafat/ Global News
“It’s amazing. My heart is so full this year. And Christmas is about being together and sharing. And staff and residents that have shared their knowledge and time to get these doors ready. Some people have worked till 1 o’clock in the morning,” said Doucette. Leena Latafat/Global News

This year’s prize went to “The Fixer Upper,” a door made out of recycled items. Next year, the lodge is opening up the contest to all of the Saskatoon Health Region.

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