Edna Twivey, a 101-year-old former nurse who treated injured soldiers during World War II, has revealed that her secret to a long and active life is the enduring love she shares with her husband, David, who is 11 years her junior. The couple, who met over 60 years ago at a Scottish country dancing class in London, continue to enjoy overseas travel, including a recent Scandinavian cruise.
Describing their relationship, Edna said: 'Family is everything and David is my rock. The love we have keeps us both young!' The pair have already planned their next holiday, a river cruise in Holland. In addition to her marriage, Edna credits the support she receives from local social care staff at Stonehouse Lifestyles, run by South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, with helping her stay young and active.
Staff at the service recently held a party to celebrate Edna's birthday, which was also attended by Provost Margaret Cooper and Deputy Lieutenant Janet Low. Cooper described meeting Edna as 'an absolute pleasure' and noted how 'absolutely devoted' David is to her. Edna's key worker, Angela Alexander, said the centenarian is always appreciative of staff and frequently thanks them for their work.
Reflecting on her nursing career, Edna recalled how she would scold WWII soldiers who misbehaved and sternly order them back to bed. Now, she said, the 'tables have turned' and she is a 'recipient of support, benefitting from the added reassurance of being connected to a community in Strathaven'. She described the service as a 'god-send'.
