During the Easter break, the Development Office received a phone call from Yorkare Care Home in Cottingham, asking for help to make a wish come true for one of their residents. Dr Emanuel Graham Lucas OBE, fondly known as Graham (OH 1941–50) who is living with dementia, had expressed a heartfelt wish to return to his old school in the hope that it might help him reconnect with treasured memories from his youth.

Despite the challenges caused by his condition, Graham still speaks warmly of his school days, and the Development team were delighted to help. Less than a week later, on a beautifully sunny day, Graham returned to the School for the first time in over 75 years, accompanied by the wonderful Theresa and Mark from the Yorkare activities team.

Graham left the School in 1951 and went on to study Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, later becoming a Consultant Psychiatrist. In recognition of his outstanding service to the Crown, Government, and his country, he was awarded an OBE by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2007. Following his university studies, Graham worked in London and Berlin, where he interviewed prisoners of war. Remarkably, he was responsible for interviewing the last prisoner of war of the Second World War.

During his visit, Graham spent two hours touring the School grounds. As he was shown around, he fondly recalled buildings and locations he remembered from his time as a student, while also taking great interest in learning about the many additions and changes made to the School since he left. Despite his dementia, these moments of recognition and reflection were deeply moving for all involved and a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of school memories.

Prior to Graham’s visit, Jane from the Development Office was able to locate two photographs in which Graham appeared named. Together with Graham, Theresa, and Mark, a visit to the School archives was arranged to see whether these might help spark further memories.

What followed was truly remarkable. When shown a photograph of his rugby team, Graham was able to recall every one of his teammates without referring to the names listed alongside the image. This deeply moving moment was a joy for Theresa and Mark to witness and highlighted just how strong and meaningful Graham’s school memories remain.

While exploring the archives, Graham also vividly remembered details of the School uniform and sports kit displayed, recalling how they were worn and used during his time as a student. Further research uncovered Graham’s name in the School ledgers, along with two whole-school photographs in which he also appeared. He recalled nicknames of teachers and fellow students, as well as the strong values that his time at Hymers taught him. 

Shown below is an extract from The Hymerian in 1948, where Graham is mentioned for playing a key role in securing a victory against the Old Hymerians during a match held at Hymers in October 1948, a proud moment brought back to life through his visit. Grahams visit concluded with a picnic outside overlooking the School playing feilds and looking at the pavillion. 

Yorkare have long supported the Schools work experience programme and as part of the summer visits to students, Jane will visit Graham with a further School report she found with him mentioned. 

Thank you for allowing us to be part of Graham’s wish. It was a memorable and meaningful day for all involved.