Edna Talleur, born in 1902, celebrates her 102nd birthday

In 1902, when Warwick resident Edna Talleur came into this world, the President of the United States was Theodore Roosevelt. The Wright Brothers would not make their historic powered flight until the following year. Automobiles were a novelty and most people traveled by horse and carriage. On Friday, April 30, Talleur, a resident of Schervier Pavilion, a skilled nursing facility at the Bon Secours Warwick Health Care Campus, celebrated her 102nd birthday. Before entering Schervier, she had been a resident of nearby Mount Alverno Center Adult Home and Assisted Living Program. "We've planned a nice birthday party for Edna in our recreation room," said Kari Call, CTRS. "And everyone is invited." Call, a certified therapy recreation specialist (CTRS) serves as Director of Recreation at Schervier Pavilion. Edna Talleur lived most of her life in Warwick but she was born in Dutchess County, NY. The historic family name, Dyckman, places her ancestors among the earliest Dutch settlers. She describes herself as "farmer" and fondly recalls those days when she grew up on her parent's farm with her two sisters and three brothers. When asked how she managed to live so many years, Talleur shrugged and replied," I don't know. I never did anything in particular." Although it may still seem rare, the fasting growing segment of the population is actually people who have reached the age of 100 and beyond. Providing long term health care is one of the most important services offered by members of the Bon Secours Health Care System. "We provide a lifetime of care for the people in our community," said Leah Cerkvenik, RN, executive vice president/administrator of the Bon Secours Warwick Health Care Campus (WHCC) which includes St. Anthony Community Hospital, Schervier Pavilion and Mount Alverno Center. "With our excellent hospital and medical staff and our supported living and skilled nursing facilities, we can offer our community a full range of health care services at one location right here in our hometown."