HAVERFORD >> Sometimes family is more about connection than bloodlines. Dorothea McLaughlin’s family showed up for her 100th birthday party. Dorothea turned 100 on Aug. 7. On Monday at her home in Havertown, her extended family from BAYADA Hospice and Home Health Care, pastors, church members and neighbors came to celebrate.
Dorothea’s sister Virginia died a few years back but many remember the two going to churches in Delaware County. Dorothea is in hospice care. She wore a tiara denoting her queen like status on her centennial birthday.
“They did everything together. Virginia played the organ and Dorothea would be in church with her. The two would go to various places throughout the county using felt boards teaching children about the Bible,” remembered Pastor Roland Buccialia of Spruce Street Baptist Church in Newtown Square.
Thirty people gathered to wish her happy birthday. State Rep. James Santora, R-163 of Upper Darby, delivered citations from both he and state Sen. Daylin Leach, D-17 of Upper Merion, to recognize all her contributions during her lifetime within her community.
The staff at BAYADA wanted it to be a special day. Registered Nurse Nancy Peezick made the chocolate cake consisting of dark chocolate icing and decorations in pink and white.
“We wanted to honor all her wishes and do everything we can do to make this day special for her. It’s actually a blessing that people allow us into their lives during such a stressful time. For me it’s a blessing that I am able to be here to give back,” said Peezick.
“We help people have a safe home life with comfort, independence and dignity. We work as team giving home care, skilled hospice care and spiritual counseling,” said Peezick.
Lori O’Brien has lived next door to Dorothea for 11 years. Her four children – twins Maura and Erin, 12, Liam, 10, and Sean, 8 – made a birthday card for Dorothea.
“She is quick-witted and loves ice cream. She and her sister were so much fun. After her sister passed, we tried to help her shoveling her driveway and checking up on her,” said O’Brien.
Christina Williams of Psychological and Spiritual Counselors Manager at BAYADA saw on the work calendar that Dorothea was turning 100.
“So many clients don’t make it to this age and are coherent. We are her family. Because of that we invited the state representatives, the community, the pastors and members of our team to be here. I just wanted her to know how many people care and how many people lover her,” said Williams.
