Celebrations were postponed for Ms. Rattanee Persad who turned 102 on April 9th as the centenarian was hospitalised due to Covid-19.
However, the Ministry of Social Development was thrilled to learn that Ms. Persad was resting comfortably at home having beaten the virus when visited by Ms Janinka Gomes, Inspector I of the Division of Ageing on Friday 29th April 2022. Ms Gomes visited the centenarian to deliver her Certificate of Honour and Achievement, a food hamper, and a birthday cake sponsored by the Kiss Baking Company and was thrilled to see that Ms Persad was in good health to receive her tokens of appreciation.
The Ministry learned that mask-wearing is not new to Ms. Persad. According to relatives, this is not her first pandemic as she remembers living through a past pandemic where masks also had to be worn at that time. Asked about her secret to living beyond 100, Ms. Persad attributed healthy eating to her longevity.
With more than enough years of experience, Ms. Persad advised the younger generation that education is the key. “No idling, be productive. Education is important and prayers” said Ms. Persad.
The mother of eight said she grew up in Felicity but moved to Claxton Bay approximately fifteen years ago. She indicated that she is proud to see her children grow up and have good jobs and she is also proud to be able to see her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She further indicated that her parents were cane cutters and likewise in the field of agriculture, reared animals, gardened, and sold her produce.
The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services was pleased to honour Ms Persad and encourage family and loved ones, Members of Parliament, Local Government representatives, friends, and neighbours to salute our nation’s centenarians by registering for the Programme.
Persons may visit the Ministry’s website at www.social.gov.tt and complete the online form or print a downloadable form for completion. Completed forms may be dropped off at the nearest Social Welfare Office or emailed to the Division of Ageing at opic@social.gov.tt. For more information, persons may contact the Division of Ageing at 623 – 2608; Ext 2001 to 2009 or 800-OPIC (6742).
