Chelmsford care home resident marks milestone birthday in style

There were plenty of smiles and slices of cake as a resident at a care home in Chelmsford celebrated her 103rd birthday.

Weronika Chelchowska, who lives at Care UK's Manor Lodge on Manor Road, marked the incredible milestone with her son, John, alongside team members and fellow residents, who came together to make her day one to remember.

During the celebrations, Weronika and her guests were surrounded by banners and balloons as they enjoyed a delicious cake prepared especially by the home's head chef.

Reflecting on her day, Weronika said: “It was such a lovely day. Seeing the balloons and sharing cake with my friends made me feel so special.”

Born in Poland, Weronika moved to Chiswick in west London in 1950 after the second world war to begin a new chapter in her life. She later married her husband, Janusz, who was also from Poland, and together they welcomed John into the world in 1959.

Throughout her life, Weronika has been known for her kindness and dedication to others. A devoted member of her local Polish Catholic church, she spent many years volunteering and supporting her community, with her faith continuing to play an important role in her life today.

After working at Waitrose, Weronika continued giving back by volunteering in charity shops. She also loved welcoming family and friends into her home, where she was happiest preparing traditional Polish dishes and bringing everyone together around the table.

Today, Weronika enjoys watching Poirot mysteries on TV, spending time with loved ones and taking part in activities at the home. She also relishes a friendly game of cards, earning a reputation as someone who's always tough to beat!

When asked her secret to living a long and happy life, Weronika's answer was simple: “A lovely family and hard work.”

Natasha Webster, Home Manager at Manor Lodge, said: “It was a joy to celebrate Weronika's 103rd birthday alongside fellow residents and team members.

“Weronika has lived such a wonderful life and touched so many people through her kindness and generosity. She loves spending time with others, and hearing her stories about growing up in Poland, building a life in Britain and bringing family and friends together over her cooking is always lovely.

“It was wonderful to see Weronika surrounded by so much love as she celebrated this incredible milestone. Everyone at Manor Lodge wishes her a very happy birthday.”

Manor Lodge, rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, is a modern care home that provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead enjoyable and fulfilling lives, it has its very own cinema, café and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.