Daphne celebrates 98 years with a waltz
Daphne spends her days admiring the garden and immersing herself in crossword puzzles.
Devout mother, granny and great-granny Daphne Lawrence of Parkrand was the centre of attention when she celebrated her 98th birthday.
Born on October 28, this pint-sized lady with an endearing personality was born at the foot of Table Mountain, before making a life on the East Rand, with her husband John and four children.
Living with her spirited daughter, Brenda Steenkamp, there is little time for Daphne to sit idly by and soak up her golden years.
“Growing up, there was nothing that our mom could not do,” said Steenkamp.
“She is the embodiment of motherhood with love coursing through her veins. I make it my mission to continuously challenge her mentally and physically. It was astounding that she happily completed her first parkrun at the age of 93.”
Although she has since surrendered her walking shoes, Daphne can still be found doing a slow waltz at family events.
During her most recent birthday celebration, the absence of her only son and one of her daughters was palpable.
She raised a glass in their memory saying that she was privileged that their lives were lent to her.
About the secret to longevity, she said being surrounded by those you love the most makes you never want to leave their side.
“My fondest memories are ones shared with my family and that is the cherry on top,” she said.
“Youth is fleeting but time spent with family will last a lifetime. I wish people would realise this, an embrace is the only thing that keeps your heart pumping.”
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