On Thursday 13 August at Happiness in Mind, a day centre in Rye for older people including those with dementia, Irene Peach celebrated her 100th birthday a little early – the actual day was two days later on the Saturday. The Mayor of Rye Councillor Chris Hoggart and his wife Kathy were honoured to be invited to share the celebrations at Magdala House. The mayor had contacted the Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex, Andrew Blackman, and he sent a message of congratulation from the King.
Born in 1926, Irene has live though 22 Prime Ministers in her 36,525 days, including 25 leap days. There have been five monarchs during her lifetime.
She has seen a World War, the Cold War, the space age, the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Millennium, Covid and a century of memories.
Irene is a real character who loves music and dancing said her daughter Angela. “She was born at St Andrew’s hospital in Billericay, Essex on 15 August 1926. She had a younger sister, Winifred, who sadly passed away several years ago. On 27 June 1953 Irene married her husband, Frederick, and on 7 March 1959 Irene and Fred welcomed me into the world.
“They lived and worked in Karachi in Pakistan, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and in Oman. She worked as a medical secretary whilst living abroad and then at the Royal East Sussex Hospital in Hastings upon her return. During these times the family home remained in Staplecross. Irene and her late husband also liked to travel, enjoying holidays to Canada, Egypt and New York. They also bought a small miner’s cottage in Pendeen, Cornwall and spent many happy times there, too.
It is with great sadness that because of my mother’s dementia she is no longer able to remember the exciting and eventful life that she has led.”
Chris Hoggart said, “It was a real honour to be asked to celebrate this wonderful lady’s birthday. The care and attention the staff at the centre provide is warming. The people who attend the day centre all had smiles and were enjoying the celebrations.”
Jim Currell, the CEO of the charity that runs Happiness in Mind said, “The ECR Foundation is a Hastings- and Rother based charity supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our local communities with projects providing education, care and relief. At our two Happiness in Mind centres in Rye and St Leonards we provide a safe and welcoming space for older people, including those living with dementia, where they can come for the day and enjoy food, company and a range of activities. Our trained staff and relaxed atmosphere mean that people can relax whilst they are with us, and carers can have a well-earned break.”
The name Happiness In Mind came following a brainstorming session with attendees and staff led by Allison, the day service manager. She asked how they felt when they were at the centre and everyone said happy. Someone then said, “It’s in your mind” and the new name was sorted.
Image Credits: Kt Bruce .