Happy 100th birthday, Gizella

In a year that has had little to celebrate, Connect Health & Community is delighted to wish long-time client, Gizella, a very happy 100^th birthday in November.

Gizella was born in Savoly, Hungary on 2 November, 1920.

One of six children, she came to Australia in June, 1957 as a refugee where her family settled in Benalla, in north east Victoria.

Her daughters Suzanna and Honnie moved to Melbourne after finishing secondary school and Gizella followed them a few years later.

On moving to East Bentleigh she joined the Explorer Program, run by Glen Eira Council and remains the longest participating member.

Gizella began joined the Connect Health & Community family in 2010 at the age of 90, with a visit from our occupational therapist.  From there she joined our Falls and Balance group for while, before moving to the Gentle Exercise for Older Adults group in 2011. 

Connect Health & Community allied health assistant, Terry, said Gizella is an exemplary participant in classes, who always determined to overcome any hiccups she encounters.

“If she has a set-back, Gizella has a determined attitude to get back to normal – and her normal is better than most 65 year olds I know!” she said.

Gizella enjoys Connect Health & Community’s social outings and catching up with her friends.  And her hobbies include tapestry, sewing, knitting, crocheting, crosswords, gardening and spending time with her granddaughter, Victoria.

“Gizella also has the highest attendance record for our groups here at Connect Health and Community and is always punctual with a smile for everyone.  I really don’t see her slowing down anytime soon,” she said.

With our exercise groups yet to return from Covid restrictions, Gizella is missing her weekly exercise classes, and while she is keeping up her activity at home, says it is not the same.

Happy Birthday Gizella, we wish you many more years of health, happiness, socialising and look forward to seeing you again soon.