Uniting AgeWell Supports Geelong Couple's Comfortable Home Life in Retirement

The upcoming wedding anniversary card for Kathleen and Peter O'Connor will be bestowed by the King, maintaining their tradition. The Geelong couple, who have shared 63 years of marriage, treasure a collection of Diamond Wedding anniversary cards from the Queen, the Australian Prime Minister, and the Governor General.

The upcoming wedding anniversary card for Kathleen and Peter O'Connor will be bestowed by the King, maintaining their tradition. The Geelong couple, who have shared 63 years of marriage, treasure a collection of Diamond Wedding anniversary cards from the Queen, the Australian Prime Minister, and the Governor General.

Anticipation builds as they eagerly await a card from the King to commemorate their 65th anniversary.

"I surely deserve a medal for enduring him all these years," Kathleen chuckles.

At the age of 85, both Peter and Kathleen relish their lives in the retirement village, where they claim to spend their days in relaxation, although they remain rather occupied.

Kathleen actively participates in the East Grovedale Ladies' Probus Club, having written and edited the church magazine for several years. Additionally, she has penned her autobiography and finds solace in reading, playing wordle and words with friends, as well as indulging in documentaries on TV.

Peter, on the other hand, devotes his time to the Mount Duneed Men's Shed, dabbles with computers, and tends to their modest garden where he nurtures tomatoes and other vegetables.

Due to various health challenges, Peter has mobility limitations resulting from foot reconstruction, three knee replacements, and a right lung lobectomy. Kathleen copes with arthritis and atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat.

"It's my fault," jests Peter. "I still manage to make her heart beat faster!"

Both Kathleen and Peter benefit from a level two home care package provided by Uniting AgeWell. They receive assistance with housework, Peter receives a helping hand with shopping, and both have utilised the physiotherapy services.

The couple is blessed with two daughters and two granddaughters, having embarked on numerous travels throughout their years together.

Kathleen and Peter express profound gratitude towards Uniting AgeWell Care Advisor Shell French, who has facilitated their comfortable living arrangements at home.

Furthermore, they hold their home care worker, Emes, in high regard, considering her almost like family. "She's kind and compassionate," Peter affirms.

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