Celebrating A Century: Gladys Turns 100 With A Royal Surprise

Avocet Court resident Gladys celebrated her milestone 100th birthday with a surprise performance of ‘Happy Birthday’ from the Band of the Household Cavalry, fulfilling a long-held dream of Gladys’s.

Gladys has always wished to visit London to see the majestic horses and the guards in their regal attire. Her brother had been a guardsman, often on duty at Buckingham Palace.

Although circumstances had prevented her from making this trip, thanks to the team at Athena Care Homes the grandeur of the Household Cavalry came to her with a personal video, making her centennial celebration unforgettable.

Born and raised in the picturesque town of Stowmarket, Gladys worked at a local greengrocer, contributing to the community with her warm demeanor and dedication. Family has always been at the core of her life; she is the proud mother of two children, a son and a daughter, as well as a grandmother and great grandmother over the years.

Alongside her husband, Gladys spent many years on a smallholding where they embraced a self-sufficient lifestyle. They raised animals, grew their own vegetables, and even delved into winemaking, crafting ten varieties of wine. It’s no wonder that Gladys’s advice for a long life includes enjoying a glass of wine each day.

Avocet Court Hospitality Services Manager Hayley Halsall said,
“We wanted to make the day special for Gladys and love to make our residents wishes come true. When we discovered a member of the team had a brother in the Household Guards we decided to try and pull a few strings and the result was wonderful.

“Gladys was really touched to hear Happy Birthday played for her and to get some messages from the guardsmen and women.”

Since February 2023, Gladys has called Avocet Court home. Here, she enjoys engaging in activities and enjoying the company of fellow residents. Her zest for life have made her a cherished member of the Avocet Court community.

The grand celebration of Gladys’s 100th birthday, marked by the melodious tunes of the Band of the Household Cavalry, was a testament to a life well-lived and a dream beautifully realized.

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