Alice, a resident at Murrayside one of Care UK’s homes in South Beechwood, recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She puts living to a ripe old age down to healthy living and keeping a great sense of humour.
There was a party with her friends at Murrayside and a few family members were invited, as well as the home’s piper Christopher Happs from George Heriot’s School, and the Depute Lord Provost, Joan Griffiths MBE. Christopher played a selection of music including the song he composed for the home, Murrayside and of course a very special Happy Birthday.
A commemorative tree was planted in the grounds of the home, grown by the horticultural manager, Fran Long.
Gillian Gray, customer relations manager at Murrayside said: “Residents are at the heart of everything we do here at Murrayside, and we always like to throw a party for special celebrations – and Alice’s 100th birthday was no exception.
“We were inundated with birthday cards, including one from the Queen, which Alice particularly enjoyed – although everyone at the home made sure she was treated like royalty herself, even calling her “Our Murrayside Majesty” for the day.
“On behalf of everyone at Murrayside, I’d like to say a big thank you to the Deputy Lord Provost of Edinburgh for making Alice’s day so special. Everyone had a fantastic time and we’re looking forward to celebrating many more milestones with her!”
Alice said: “I wasn’t sure how I would feel about having a party but I had a really lovely day with lots of fun and surprises. It was so nice to hear the sound of the pipes and the Deputy Lord Provost brought me beautiful flowers and a silver brooch – so special. All in all it was a very happy day.”
Alice’s nephew, Ken Ross, said, “Alice’s 100th birthday was enjoyed and appreciated greatly by her. The day’s superb events affirmed all that is great about her extended family at Murrayside – excellence of care and support delivered with creativity and fun”
Alice was born in Edinburgh on 22nd August 1920, and has lived there her whole life, attending school in Costorphine in her younger years. She worked at her father’s engineering company, and gave up working when he passed away, to look after her mother. A film and theatre enthusiast, she has fond memories of her many Saturday trips to the Empire Cinema.
Murrayside care home has been specially designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities, and has its own cinema, hair salon and café.
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