Lillian Dugard, the oldest and a long-standing resident at The Manor has recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She was a trustee for many years and only when it became difficult for her to walk did she relinquish this position, but to this day, is still is interested in what is happening.
Lillian Dugard reads out from her book titled, From beadwork to embroidery, designs from Southern Africa. Photo: Itumeleng Komana
At her age, she requires no spectacles to read and is still fully aware of her surroundings. She reads newspapers every day and watches the news. At her birthday celebration, she was joined by her niece Claire Gerbers, and husband Brett from Australia.
“My birthday celebration was lovely, and it was lovely seeing my family,” said Dugard.
Laura Glyn Thomas (91) and Lillian Dugard (100) enjoy each other’s company. Photo: Itumeleng Komana
Two years ago, Dugard unfortunately fell and fractured her rib and is now confined to a wheelchair. “Before she fell, she was very active. She did her own shopping, cooked, baked and played bridge,” said Bets Berning, manager at The Manor. “She would walk without a stick and loved every moment of it.”
Lillian Dugard and helper, Sharon Leeuw, love to spend their time together. Photo: Itumeleng Komana
Dugard always had a passion for crafting and embroidery and has co-produced a book titled From beadwork to embroidery, designs from Southern Africa, which consisted of tutorials on how to craft. When asked whether she misses her embroidery days, Dugard was quick to reply, ‘Terribly’ as she gave a slight sigh. Her cottage is fully decorated with some of her creations and she has a case for her sunglasses which she made herself many years ago but still treasures it to this day. “She never goes outside without her sunglasses, she loves them so much and requests for them every time we go out,” said Berning.
Lilian Dugard’s cottage is decorated with her creations. Photo: Itumeleng Komana
Dugard has been a resident at The Manor since 1990 and for the past two years, Sharon Leeuw has been taking care of her, mostly during the day. “At first it was a bit tricky because she is quite strict. She’s got her own way of doing things, but now we understand each other,” said Leeuw.
Dugard is quite popular at The Manor and her friends often visit her during the day. Laura Glyn Thomas (91), a fellow resident said, “I enjoy her company a lot.”
