Touchdowns and Talking Points: NFL Love Brings Adopt a Grandparent Volunteer and Surrey Care Home Resident Closer

A shared passion for American football has sparked a heartfelt intergenerational friendship between 92-year-old Peter Seaward, a resident at Silvermere Care Home - part of Avery Healthcare - in Cobham, Surrey, and volunteer, Jing Hu. The pair were matched through Adopt a Grandparent and have been speaking regularly since October 2025 - with 10 calls and counting.

Each video call lasts around 40 to 45 minutes and has become a highlight of the week for both. One of the most unexpected joys of their conversations has been a renewed interest in the NFL. Jing is a devoted New England Patriots fan, and their mutual enthusiasm for the sport quickly became a regular talking point.

“It’s something I used to follow years ago,” said Peter, “but talking to Jing brought it all back. I’ve started keeping track again, just so I can chat with her about it!”

Jing, who is an AI journalist, brings a rich and thoughtful energy to the calls. She enjoys discussing everything from technology and travel to culture, sport, and literature. Peter, a former sales and marketing professional fluent in English and Spanish, is equally curious and intellectually engaged - with a love of history, film, sport and storytelling.

Their conversations have spanned everything from AI and Japanese cinema to rugby tactics and World War II memories. But at the heart of each call is the simple joy of meaningful connection, two people, from very different walks of life, discovering shared passions and new perspectives.

Will Hammond, Client Liaison Manager at Silvermere Care Home, said:

“Jing and Peter’s calls are a brilliant example of what Adopt a Grandparent can offer. Easing loneliness is just part of it. The real magic is the real friendships that build based on shared interests, humour and mutual respect. Watching this bond grow has been truly heartwarming.”

The pair have already had their first few calls of 2026. With the Patriots still in play and plenty more to talk about, they’ve built a friendship that shows how a single conversation can bridge generations - and how sport, stories and simple kindness can bring people closer than ever.

To learn more about the Silvermere Care Home, click here:  https://www.averyhealthcare.co.uk/care-homes/silvermere/.