About 2 months ago I covered Granny Tay’s 100th birthday celebration. Having also covered 90th and 95th birthdays this year, covering a centenarian’s birthday was a special and extraordinary privilege. It was wonderful seeing the tribute videos and hearing the speeches from various family members as they recounted the impact she has had on the family.

Granny Tay now suffers from dementia and her great granddaughter read out the following poem during her tribute speech. Having had grandparents who also were affected by dementia, it was a beautiful reminder to try and see things through their eyes.

Do Not Ask Me to Remember
Do not ask me to remember,
Don’t try to make me understand,
Let me rest and know you’re with me,
Kiss my cheek and hold my hand.

I’m confused beyond your concept,
I am sad and sick and lost.
All I know is that I need you
To be with me at all cost.

Do not lose your patience with me,
Do not scold or curse or cry.
I can’t help the way I’m acting,
Can’t be different though I try.

Just remember that I need you,
That the best of me is gone,
Please don’t fail to stand beside me,
Love me ’til my life is done.
– Owen Darnell

The following are a selection of images from Granny Tay’s 100th birthday celebration.