GreenFields of Geneva centenarian celebrates birthday party

Grace McLennan is surprised to find herself having turned 100, and was equally surprised and delighted when GreenFields of Geneva held a birthday party in her honor. The lifelong Chicago-area resident is a bit physically frail, but her mind and spirit remain strong and she has embraced the active lifestyle at GreenFields.

For her birthday celebration, Erin McCart, activity manager for Briarwood Healthcare at GreenFields, booked entertainer Steve Justman, who sings songs of Grace's era. Mayor Kevin Burns of Geneva came with well wishes, and Grace received a letter from the White House.

"We had wanted to present her with 100 greeting cards from other residents, but when word got out, she ended up getting well over 150," said Erin. "The entire third grade of Mill Creek Elementary School also sent her cards."

Teddy, the therapy dog that visits GreenFields came to the party bearing flowers for Grace. Family and friends from across the country attended to celebrate with Grace. One of the highlights was the presence of her youngest great-granddaughter, also named Grace.

Erin said that in addition to honoring a great woman, the birthday party was also a wonderful opportunity for other residents of GreenFields of Geneva to see that residents in skilled nursing can still be very vital, active and engaged.

"Grace is busy all of the time. She does crafts, service projects, loves art, plays cognitive games every day, comes to all of our parties, and loves the spiritual service and music therapy," she said.

Grace doesn't know to what to attribute her longevity. "I was sick a lot and had a lot of injuries when I was younger so I clearly wasn't wrapped in cotton or anything. I've just always been a tough old bird," she said. "I've always enjoyed being involved in a lot of things, and still do."

Erin Pazin, activity assistant, commented, "She's wise and witty and will get involved in activities that people 30 years younger than her won't do. I hear her say, 'I'm wise but not wise enough to know that I'm so old.'"

Grace isn't sure how she'd like to celebrate next year's birthday but said that this year was a lot of fun. "It was an exciting time," she said.

GreenFields is an exceptional LifeCare community offering an ideal location, a wonderful retirement lifestyle. GreenFields offers independent living, assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation and skilled nursing, with the most comprehensive plan available for long-term care if ever needed. For additional information, visit www.GreenFieldsOfGeneva.org.