One of the Tornado Park Retirement Village residents recently celebrated her 90th birthday, and was surprised with a very special birthday party.
Upon entering the dining hall, Mimmie van der Merwe could not contain her emotions when she was greeted with shouts of ‘Surprise!’ by all her friends who came out to celebrate her milestone birthday with her.
Initially, Mimmie did not want anyone to make a fuss on the day, but the residents had other plans. They spoke to Marsha Danielz and Elaine van der Merwe, who run a cell group at the village, and the two quickly got the ball rolling.
They made all the necessary arrangements, baked a special cake and cupcakes, had the hall decorated with balloons and sent out the invitations. “Mimmie is such a delight and everybody loves her; it was a privilege for us to organise this party for her,” said Marsha.
An emotional Mimmie said, “To be honest, this was a very nice surprise, and I am ecstatic that all my friends came out today to celebrate with me. It is good to know that there are people who still care and it makes this day so much more special.”
Mimmie is still very healthy and active, and participates in the weekly bingo and card nights. She also attends the bi-weekly aerobics classes.
“I give thanks to the Lord that I am still healthy and able to look after myself. I take life one day at a time,” she said.
Mimmie also showed her sense of humour when, after blowing out her birthday candles, she said, “These cupcakes look very delicious, and, if you all ask nicely, I might just share them with you!”
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