At The Bristal communities, every milestone is an opportunity to celebrate a life well-lived. This approach was beautifully embodied at The Bristal at Holtsville recently, as residents, team members, family, and friends gathered to celebrate Mae and mark her 100th birthday.
In the Bistro Grille, guests gathered to sing "Happy Birthday" and enjoy live entertainment featuring timeless classics. The programming team created a touching slideshow capturing highlights from Mae's life, a presentation which brought tears of joy to her eyes. Overwhelmed by the love and admiration in the room, Mae shared, "I never expected such a big event. I feel so special today."
To commemorate the occasion, Christina Clark, Executive Director of The Bristal at Holtsville, presented Mae with a town proclamation and a card signed by residents and team members. "It's truly an honor to know Mae and learn from her," Christina shared. "She is a radiant light in our community, and everyone was thrilled to come together to celebrate her!"
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Breaking the Glass Ceiling
Mae's story is one of resilience and trailblazing success. During World War II, Mae led the accounting department at The Home Insurance Company - an impressive feat in an era when such roles were typically held by men. As the nation's workforce shifted, Mae stepped up, supervising forty women in the accounting and bookkeeping departments. "I had my own phone and everything," she recalled with a smile. "I was making ten dollars a week, and I even got a raise. That was a big deal back then!"
Mae's Advice for a Long and Fulfilling Life
When asked about her secret to longevity, Mae shared a simple yet profound lesson from her mother: "Everything in moderation, but try everything." It's a philosophy that has guided her through a century of experiences, shaping a life filled with wisdom, adventure, and joy.
At The Bristal communities, we celebrate not just the passing years, but the vibrancy our residents bring to their surroundings every day. Mae's story is a beautiful reminder that growing older not just about aging - it's about embracing each moment with grace and enthusiasm.
Article informed by original reporting from The Patch.
