Centenarians and Those Soon-to-Be Honored at St. Patrick's Home

Excitement filled St. Patrick’s Nursing Home on June 18 as the 264-bed skilled nursing facility on Van Cortlandt Park South in the Bronx hosted their annual centennial celebration for residents who have made it to 100, or who are on the cusp of that milestone age. This 2024 event included six residents, all women, who either made it to 100 or soon will be. They include the facility's oldest, Catherine S. (101), also Ann L., Carrie J. (100), Rosa J. (100 in August), Mary C. (100 in November), and Ruby W, who is the baby of the group at 99.

The event took place inside St. Joseph Hall on the 2nd Floor where the Recreation Department, led by Director Janet Kibassa, worked hard in the days leading up to this grand occasion to make it a success....and that they did. The ceremony began with an "all-join-in" singing of the inspirational song, “One Day at a Time” and then facility’s Administrator Rafi Lehmann charismatically spoke to the audience bringing laughs when he pointed out that there were no males in that age bracket saying they need to catch up and the way to do that as by being more healthy. He then thanked all of the staff, both clinical and non-clinical, for their hard work throughout the year for keeping the residents healthy and safe.

"These women up here who are being honored for their milestone age are a true testament on how we here know how to keep our residents, safe and happy," said Lehmann. "Thank you also to the Recreation staff for making this all happen and thank you to the families for playing a big part of their everyday lives."

Families, staff and so many residents filled the room, live music by Rick Salucci played throughout the celebration. During this beautiful and heartfelt 2024 celebration, Bronx borough president Vanessa Gibson and Yonkers Mayor Nicholas Spano sent the facility proclamations and remarks and for each resident honored and both were read.

Following the proclamation, a poem was read by Angela Carter, families had a chance to say a few words, Ms. Kibassa read a citation, and then Resident Council President Mary H. said some nice warm words. Later, the staff presented gifts to each resident honored. Finally, the Recreation staff brought in a large birthday cake, and everyone sang "Happy Birthday," with the residents singing along. This was indeed a truly remarkable celebration.