Shannon Court resident celebrates 102nd birthday among friends

A resident at Shannon Court, in Surrey, has celebrated her 102nd birthday.

Sheila Gargulio enjoyed a celebration with fellow residents, staff and loved ones at the Home. She was also presented with gifts, balloons and, of course, a birthday cake.

Sheila was born in Sussex in March 1921, and recalls her youth fondly. She says:

My family was splendid, loving and caring.

During the Second World War, Sheila became a nurse and did her training at the Royal Surrey County Hospital. She finished her training in 1945, when the war ended. Only two years later, in September 1947, she got married and carried on working as a nurse. Recalling her own experience, she advises:

Always try to do something for work that you enjoy.

Resident Sheila smiles while she is presented with her birthday cake.

Sheila is now 102. What’s her secret to a long life? Her answer is simple. “Happiness,” she says with a smile on her face. However, she has a piece of advice for younger generations to encourage this state of mind:

Enjoy nature. It’ll give you peace.

When asked if there is anything about her that might surprise people, she says:

Oh, I think I am bad tempered.

However, Leah and Kata, the two Activities Coordinators at Shannon Court, disagree:

No, Sheila is the sweetest lady – always happy!

[Summary: Sheila Gargulio, a resident at Shannon Court, in Surrey, has celebrated her 102nd birthday with fellow residents, staff and loved ones at the Home. During the Second World War, Sheila became a nurse and did her training at the Royal Surrey County Hospital.]