On Thursday 27th January
Eastbourne House residential and residential memory care home, in Whitley Bay, celebrated the 102nd birthday of its most senior Resident, Florence.
After breakfast Florence started the day by opening the many birthday cards and gifts from family, friends, staff and fellow Residents and well-wishers who had heard all about Florence and wanted to send her many happy returns of the day.
Frankie Pattison, Eastbourne Houses Resident Liaison, organised for a Zoom chat and guided tour of one of Florence’s favourite holiday spots from her younger days. This was Blackness Castle in Scotland. The gentlemen who currently work there, gave her a guided tour of both the castle and the village, highlighting some of Florence’s favourite spots. They then had a chat with her, and she shared her memories of the area, and even gave them some knowledge that they weren’t aware of! They finished the call with another surprise, they got their kilts on and played ‘Happy Birthday’ on the bagpipes in the Castle Grounds. Florence was so thrilled with the surprise!
With the help of Wellbeing Coordinator Justine Sutton, the party continued in the Residents lounge, after a lovely visit from Florence’s family. Staff and Residents gathering to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ and present Florence with a magnificent birthday cake made by Eastbourne House’s very own Sous Chef, Reah Smith.
Eastbourne House’s Manager Debbie White made a short speech expressing how well respected and loved Florence is within the home and how she absolutely amazes everyone with her sense of humour and interesting memories. Debbie finished by asking the question that everyone wants to know the answer to … “Florence what is your secret?” to which Florence answered in her soft Scottish voice “I cannae tell you my secrets!”
The party concluded with a singalong to some old-time classic songs including Florence’s special request Kenneth McKellar singing “My Love is like a Red Red Rose”.
Those Residents who have spent time with Florence cannot fail to be lifted by her beautiful smile and sunny character.
Cicely Pullman, who also lives at Eastbourne, remarked, “Florence is fantastic, a real Character and absolutely amazing for her age an inspiration to us all.”
Fellow Resident Ira Steel added, “What an amazing lady Florence is, I cannot believe she is 102!”
Debbie commented, “Florence is such a special lady, and it is truly a delight to share such a special birthday with her. She really is the Queen of Eastbourne House and deserves all the well wishes in the world.”