Riding down Main Street in grand marshal style is a rare opportunity, but for Myda Lewis, a resident at Stillwater’s Westhaven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Oklahoma, it became a dream come true.
As she approached her 107th birthday on June 21, one of her caregivers asked if there was anything special she had always wanted to do.
Myda Lewis, a resident of Stillwater since 1919, had always harbored a dream of riding in a convertible in a parade. Although no parades were scheduled in the small-town community just west of Tulsa, her caregivers arranged for a convertible to fulfill her wish. When residents learned about it, they decided to organize a parade in her honor.
The news quickly spread, leading to the creation of a Facebook group and coverage by local press outlets. On the day of the event, a large crowd gathered along Main Street, waving banners, wearing party hats, and showering Myda with confetti as she rode in her dusty gold Mercedes, making it one of the most memorable birthday celebrations the neighborhood had ever witnessed.
Toni Ivey, along with other community members, eagerly prepared placards before setting up camp with her three children in anticipation of the parade, their festive mood evident. “Today is a day for celebration! Who wouldn’t want to celebrate turning 107?” she exclaimed. “If Myda wants a parade, we’re going to make sure she gets one! The world could use this positivity right now.”
The entire town came together, with not a single grumpy face in sight. Along the parade route, a large pink umbrella provided shelter from the scorching summer heat as well-wishers approached Myda, presenting her with balloons, cards, and flowers. Myda, dressed in a soft pink gown and a white sash adorned with rhinestones spelling out “107,” proudly wore a tiara atop her head for her special day.
It was a fitting tribute to a woman who had experienced such a long and remarkable life. As for her secret to longevity, Myda largely attributes it to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle since childhood. However, she humorously admits that reaching her 107th birthday wasn’t her primary goal. “I’ve always wanted to maintain a cute figure,” she jokingly remarked.
Congratulations to Miss Myda on yet another milestone birthday, and may there be many more to come! Let’s share to wish her a happy birthday and to express gratitude to her community for showering her with love on her special day.