Vera Birt, resident of the Care Centre of Lakeview Lifestyle Village in Freeland Park, celebrated her 100th birthday on July 11.
She was born in Modderfontein on the East Rand in 1920. She married Brian Birt in 1943 and they both retired from AECI in 1973.
The couple travelled around South Africa and Zimbabwe in their caravan for eight years, then settled in Amanzimtoti for 35 years.
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Vera is described by her friends and family as “extremely energetic” and fun to be around with her greatest joys in life being her children Gillian and Noreen as well as her grandchildren.
Unfortunately, due to the lockdown, her friends in the main complex of the lifestyle village, as well as those who have known her for many years in the rest of the village, were unable to have a grand birthday celebration with her in person.
To help with the celebrations while still adhering to lockdown regulations, the wall facing the care centre was decorated with a birthday sign so Vera could enjoy looking at it through the glass partition at the care centre without having to set foot outdoors.
Before her big day, a birthday card circulated among residents so everyone was given a chance to write a message to Vera. The card was presented to her on her birthday, along with a beautifully decorated cake.
Keeping in mind the lockdown regulations, the residents took turns to wish Vera happy birthday safely through the glass partition.
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