Centenarian Molly raises a glass to 106 years
The champagne was flowing at Field House recently as resident Molly Rogers celebrated her 106th birthday in spectacular style.
Surrounded by family, friends, and fellow residents, Molly marked the milestone with a royal flourish. For the second time, she received a telegram from the Palace - this time from His Majesty the King - to sit alongside the one sent by the late Queen Elizabeth II for her 100th birthday.
Despite the grand festivities, Molly has historically been modest about her longevity. Since hitting the century mark, she has cheekily declined to disclose her age to passers-by. However, she is more than happy to share the secrets of her vibrant spirit.
Reflecting on her journey, Molly credits her resilience to the challenges of the past. While many prefer to leave memories of the World Wars behind, Molly views those years as the foundation of her contentment. "I am happy that I lived through the war," she remarked, "as it made me very grateful for the wonderful life I have led."
Molly’s sense of adventure famously peaked in her 70s when she moved to Canada to be near her daughter. Never one to shy away from hard graft, she famously assisted in building her own home across the Atlantic.
She often regales staff with the tale of the day she was spotted atop a ladder, clutching a tarpaulin in the pouring rain. When a panicked builder shouted that she shouldn't be up there at her age, Molly simply thought: "I can do what I am able to do."
Following the passing of her husband, Molly returned to England with her family. In 2020, she chose to begin her "next chapter" by moving into Field House, where she has become a local fixture.
The day's celebrations included a bespoke birthday cake crafted by Activity Coordinator Caroline Davis, followed by a surprise party organised by Molly’s daughter.
Reflecting on her milestone, Molly was full of praise for those around her:
"I have made it to this age because I have led a wonderful life and been cared for so well by my family and now the wonderful staff at Field House. I just don’t know how they do it; they are amazing."
Paula Wiggan, General Manager of the Barchester Field House care home, praised the birthday girl’s enduring wit: "We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman. Molly is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more for the many years that she is with us."
