It isn't often we get to witness a Saskatchewan resident celebrating a 99-year birthday, let alone an individual as alert and vibrant as Mary Sendecki of Hafford.
A joyful gathering was held on the afternoon of Mary's birthday, Aug. 2, at the Hafford Special Care Centre (HSCC). Residents, staff and local musicians joined the family to participate in honouring the special lady.
As some old-time melodies played in the background, it was interesting to observe Mary from a distance. From time to time the corner of her mouth would lift. Is she possibly reliving a favourite memory, I pondered? From time to time her hand or foot would move in tune to the music. Perhaps reminiscing about a dance from years ago?
Although she shared a lot of facts and memories with her family, I somehow imagine some memories were kept in confidence, her own secret memory left for only her to retrieve when triggered by a certain melody, scent or picture.
Great-granddaughters Wyntr and Natelka Sendecki led Mary to the dance floor and proceeded to fill Mary's heart with even more joy as her lips parted into a full-blown smile and her feet shuffled along to the tune.
Mary was the oldest of seven children born to John and Nettie Kostiuk. Although Mary has seen many hardships throughout her life, as well as many technological and agricultural advances, she remained positive, encouraging and loving as a mother. "You are a good mother," said son Andrew addressing the audience but focusing his attention on his mother, "and we love you dearly."
I am sure raising three boys was not necessarily an easy task and the tear in Andrew's eye and expression on his face was a clear indication that times were tough at the best of times.
Mary is as mentally alert as most of us, if not better. When asked when she moved into the HSCC, she answered with only a brief hesitation, six years. Even the family couldn't agree on the date!
It was clearly evident this woman of style and grace is blessed with the admiration and respect of not only her family and fellow residents but also of everyone she meets. She has been such a positive role model and has made a lasting impression on so many including myself.
"Mary, you are our sunshine and I look forward to your smile in the morning," commented Bev Foster, relief activities director. "You have made us better people just by knowing you."
Carly Lesko thanked Mary for her unwavering patience, her smiles every morning and her continued prayers for everyone. "You are a pleasure to be around and we love you very much," she concluded.
Great-granddaughters Wyntr and Natelka recited verse and sang a song in honour of their great-grandmother's birthday and Wyntr concluded by saying, "Baba, we love you more than we can ever say."
In attendance to celebrate this momentous occasion were Mary's three sons Andrew (Bonnie), John (Olga) and Nick; granddaughter Donna Reed; granddaughter-in-law Sharona Sendecki; and great-grandchildren Natelka Sendecki, Krystiyan Sendecki, Andreya Sendecki, Wyntr Scheres and Jordan Reed. Sending their regrets were Sheldon Sendecki and children Ashton and Ayden; Deanna and children Thomas Hillier, Skyler Hillier and Wriley Scheres; Shawn Sendecki; John (Rhonda) and children Courtnee Sendecki and Tyler Sendecki; Nikki Sendecki (Calvin Jamon); and Neale Sendecki and children Charlotte and Adelaide.
The afternoon celebration was nonetheless an event I will remember forever. The love, joy and happiness that emanated from the many individuals filled the room created an atmosphere that no movie production crew could ever duplicate.
I thank Mary's family and staff of Hafford Special Care Centre for allowing me to be in the presence of such an elegant, refined and dignified woman.
