A Lydney care home resident was overwhelmed with birthday wishes from across the community after receiving 160 cards to mark her 100th birthday.
Brenda P who lives at Nodens Manor care home, woke up to the surprise on the 1st of August following an appeal encouraging local people to help make her milestone birthday extra special.
Among the cards were special handmade gifts and messages from Crossroads, Severn Banks Primary School, Come and Play Nursery and the Family and Children Centres.
The children at Severn Banks Primary School wrote: “Keep shining your light! You are amazing!”
Brenda spent the afternoon enjoying arts and crafts at the home, where she painted a picture of a cat, before heading out for a celebratory birthday meal with her family.
Originally from Barry Island, Brenda has faced challenges throughout her life, including the loss of her son, Gary, to cancer at just 34.
Following his death, she made a promise to herself to live each day feeling grateful for what she has and to always lead with kindness. As for her secret to reaching 100, Brenda credits plenty of coffee!
Brenda shared: “It was nice for me to have such a fuss made on this special day. I wouldn’t normally be one for it, but I had a lovely day and felt so special and cared for. The cards were amazing, the fact the community all did that, I am so grateful.”
Charlotte Scarrow, Front of House Manager at Nodens Manor, part of Elmfield care group, shared: “Special occasions like Brenda’s birthday highlight the strong sense of community both in Nodens Manor and our local area. We are fortunate to be part of a community that is always ready to lend a helping hand, as demonstrated by the incredible response to our 100 cards campaign.
“Brenda had an amazing birthday, overflowing with love, joy, and delightful surprises. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making her day so special, it would not have been the same without you.”
