By VANESSA VALENZUELA
MARIA DiGiorgio is looking back on a century filled with lasting memories and unforgettable moments.
The West Sunshine resident celebrated her 100th birthday at Benlynne Park Aged Care with staff, friends and family on Friday 4 January.
With her four children, seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, Ms DiGiorgio has been the guiding light and support of her family.
Daughter Cathy Pappaluca described her mother as a caring person who loved to be surrounded by her children and enjoyed watching over her extended family.
“I think she is a very nice person and she has always loved to help. She is a strong person, who is loved by everybody,” Cathy said.
“I have learnt a lot from her and so have my children. They trust her with everything.”
Ms DiGiorgio was born in southern Italy where she worked as a dressmaker before moving to Australia in 1959, where she settled in Deer Park with her husband.
“It was very difficult for her at first, because of the language. She couldn’t speak English, but she was happy that the family was all together,” Cathy said.
After her husband passed away, Ms DiGiorgio moved into a nursing home at the age of 93 where she now enjoys spending her time talking with fellow residents.
“She talks a lot and loves to talk about the past. When we visit her, if we want to see her happy, we always talk about the past,” Cathy said.
She attributes her mother’s long and happy life to the love and care she receives from her family.
“We are still very close with her, and I believe it has helped her to get to this stage,” she said.
