Community Corner

Recognized By Nike, Farmington Runner Is A Young 100

A Farmington assisted living facility recently celebrated a major milestone for one of its longtime residents, a local runner.

Middlewoods of Farmington

FARMINGTON, CT — A local assisted living facility recently hosted a major bash for one of its longtime residents, one who celebrated a massive milestone birthday.

Longtime resident (and accomplished runner) Laura Carrier recently celebrated her 100th birthday milestone with family and friends at Masonicare at Middlewoods of Farmington in March.

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One of her secrets to longevity? Running.

According to Middlewoods, Carrier is still active and, while competing in half-marathons is no longer part of her regimen (She stopped that when she was 88), she is still a bundle of energy at the facility.

Find out what's happening in Farmingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The day was marked by reunions of siblings who hadn’t seen each other in years, birthday cake, sing-alongs, and an official citation in her honor issued by the Connecticut State Legislature.

The community also welcomed Farmington Town Council Chairman Joe Capodiferro, who came to personally deliver a proclamation from the Town of Farmington to Carrier.

Throughout the community, Carrier is known for her quiet, steadfast nature and compassionate, generous spirit.

She is humble and kind, never wanting anyone to “make a fuss” about her, and always highlighting the accomplishments of others ahead of her own.

Before moving to her home at Masonicare at Middlewoods of Farmington in 2021, Carrier had lived in the same house since 1947.

She now seeks every opportunity to support new residents moving to the community, sharing her experience and offering encouragement for the transition.

Residents appreciate her friendship, willingness to listen, and valuable perspective.

Carrier is also a well-respected runner who has continued to stay active and fit by participating in the Nike San Francisco Half Marathon, which she began competing in when she was 78.

She participated in this annually for 10 years, running her last half marathon at age 88.

Nike made her a legacy participant and granted her automatic entry each year, while others had to win entry through a lottery.

After completing her 10th half marathon at age 88, Nike awarded her a beautiful Tiffany necklace.

“She is an inspiration to our community,” said Bianca Reome, executive director of Middlewoods. “Laura reminds us that you are never too old to set and accomplish a new goal. We wish her good health, happiness, and fulfillment as she celebrates this milestone.”

Masonicare at Middlewoods of Farmington offers independent and assisted living options. It is located at 509 Middle Road in Farmington. For more information, contact Ginny Brown, director of community relations, at 860-284-5700 or gbrown@masonicare.org. Masonicare is a Connecticut-based, not-for-profit provider of senior living and healthcare services To learn more, visit masonicare.org or call 888-332-0033.

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