Born in 1922, still first on the dancefloor
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104 year old Dympna Curran is proud of the commemorative coin she received from Uachtarán na hÉireann, Catherine Connolly. ©Rory GearyImage 2 of 3
104 year old Dympna surrounded by family at her celebration in Castleross Nursing Home ©Rory GearyImage 3 of 3
104 year old Dympna Curran takes to the dancefloor with Castleross Staff, Margaret and Maura. Photos Rory Geary ©Rory GearyThere were jubilant scenes at Castleross Nursing Home, Carrickmacross recently as Dympna Curran celebrated her 104th birthday surrounded by family, friends, residents and staff.
Born on February 28, 1922 in Broomfield, Castleblayney, Dympna has lived through more than a century of remarkable change- from the early days of the Irish Free State to the digital age. Over the decades she witnessed world wars, the arrival of television, the moon landing and the transformation of modern Ireland.
Long life
Having worked in hospitals and hotels before retiring, Dympna has called Castleross her home since 2016. Her birthday celebration in Creevy House was filled with music, ‘craic’ and dancing – all passions of Dympna’s. A birthday cake baked by the Castleross Chef and his team, festive decorations and live music by Gerry McMahon, ensured a memorable occasion- with Dympna proudly among the first on the dance floor.
Dympna received a much-treasured congratulatory letter and commemorative coin from Uachtarán na hÉireann, Catherine Connolly to mark her milestone birthday. Asked for a comment, Dympna said: “I’ve seen many changes in the world, but music, laughter and good company never go out of style.”
Heart and soul
The team at Creevy House, Castleross Nursing Home said Dympna brings “joy, humour and song to our home every day- she is truly the heart of our home”.
Castleross is a custom-built Nursing Home in Carrickmacross, that was first opened in 2002- providing short and long-term care with a specialist Alzheimer’s Unit.
It is one of 10 Grace Healthcare Ireland Homes.
Rioghnach Murphy, CEO of Grace Healthcare Ireland, noted: “Dympna represents living history and the vibrant spirit we cherish across all our 10 homes. It is a privilege to celebrate such a wonderful milestone with her.”