Eckington Court Centenarian celebrates 100th Birthday by beating coronavirus

Margaret Hallford, who lives at Eckington Court care home in Derbyshire, has enjoyed a double celebration this week after recovering from coronavirus in time to celebrate her 100th birthday. 

Staff at the care home in Penny Engine Lane, Eckington, moved Margaret to an isolation unit as soon as she showed symptoms of the virus and have now thrown her a mini-party to celebrate her landmark achievement. 

Home Manager Trudy Godley headed up the unit, ably supported by some of her staff who volunteered to join her. After going home to collect personal belongings the two teams of volunteers moved into the home so that they could share the load by living in the isolation unit for 4 days at a time. Staff with children sent them to relatives so they could dedicate their days and nights to caring for their charges.

Although Margaret is still weak she is recovering nicely and enjoyed her surprise party to celebrate her centenary. Staff arranged for Margaret’s family to be in the grounds of the home so they could applaud her and sing Happy Birthday at a safe distance, and cards were read out to her before everyone enjoyed a slice of birthday cake.

Trudy Godley acknowledged the day, saying, “Margaret is a lovely lady with a very supportive family. She was very poorly with COVID-19 but is slowly recovering.  It’s a pleasure to help Margaret and her family celebrate her 100th Birthday as well as her recovery from the virus.  My team have been amazing in caring for our residents in isolation and making sure other residents still receive all the care and attention they deserve.”