A Sussex woman, whose parents were told it would be ‘unlikely’ that she would reach the age of seven because of a heart condition, has celebrated her 100th birthday at a Steyning care home.
Vera Brennan was joined by staff and residents at Croft Meadow care home, run by Shaw healthcare, in celebration of her centenary, where they enjoyed a tea party. Her nephews, David, Martin and Andrew, were also in attendance to mark the special occasion.
Born in Rochdale, Lancashire, Vera was diagnosed with a heart condition, but has defied the odds given by the doctors when she was first born. After the Second World War, during which 
she had joined St John’s Ambulance, she met her husband, Jim. They married in 1949, with Vera wearing a wedding dress that she made herself. Vera and Jim spent many happy years running fish and chip shops, before he sadly passed away in 1984. Vera then moved to Croft Meadow and, for as long as she was able, gave of her time visiting poorly people, both in hospital and at their homes.
Her nephew, David Collins, said: “As a family, we are so appreciative of the care she receives here at Croft Meadow, and we are so pleased that she has made some wonderful friends.” He added: “Vera absolutely loves dogs – her memory is not what it used to be, and she sometimes forgets when my wife, Penny, and I visit, but she never forgets when our greyhounds visit.”
Home manager, Sharalee Thrumble, commented: “It’s wonderful to be able to mark such a milestone and give Vera and her family the chance to celebrate together. Vera has settled in so well since moving in almost a year ago and we love to hear her interesting stories.”
