World's oldest living Man with Down's syndrome celebrates 76th birthday
Staff at the care home where he lives described him as a “true gent” and “absolute darling”.
The oldest man with Down’s Syndrome in the world has celebrated his 76th birthday.
Kenny Cridge, who lives in the Wisteria House care home near Yeovil, Devon, blew out the candles on his cake on February 15.
He was recognized as the oldest man in the world with Down’s Syndrome by Guinness World Records in 2008.
He was left for dead at birth by doctors who thought he was stillborn when he arrived with twin sister Dorothy in 1939.
Back in the 1940s, the life expectancy for someone with Down’s Syndrome was just 12 years old.
His niece, Marie Shotton, 45, said: “Now people with Down’s Syndrome are treated equally and respected, but my nan said that back in the day it wasn’t like that.
“She fought a lot of battles for him and really devoted her life to Kenny.
“His father Samuel, who adored him as his little boy, had a bike with a side car, and Kenny used to drive around in it to go to the local pubs.
“He’s marvellous and people in the village where he grew up still ask about him.”
Mr Cridge lived with his mother in Hinton St George, Somerset, until she passed away in her 90s, before moving in with his nephew and then relocating to the care home three years ago.
Staff there said he enjoys playing his harmonica, eating sweet treats and joking with fellow residents.
Care home manager Ann Nicholson said: “To some this may not be a landmark age, however, for Kenny this is another milestone.
“Kenny is an absolute joy to be with every day.
“He’s smiling most of the day; before he goes to bed and when he wakes up he’s smiling.
“He is a true gentleman and a gentle man. He loves affection and his food.
“Although Kenny’s verbal communication is limited, he likes to chat, has a great sense of humor and likes laughing.”
The Down’s Syndrome Association said: “It is wonderful that people with Down’s Syndrome are now living longer than ever thanks to medical advances and the care and love of people around them.”
Source: Yahoo news
No comments:
Post a Comment