I've always wanted to live long and healthy. Now I know how to — thanks to Axa Abel who turned 100 on December 8. The secret of her long life does not, thankfully, involve a long list of do's and don'ts. Just five points to remember — eat well, don't cry over bygones, believe in God, serve others wholeheartedly and drink port wine.
Another reason for her longevity which she does not mention, but is there for all to see is the care and love she receives from her relatives. For Axa's 100th birthday (celebrated at The Residency Towers), children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren came from every corner of the globe. With about 175 people in attendance, it was way different from the birthday parties of most senior citizens.
“She has always put others ahead of her interests, and that's why she has so many well-wishers,” says Nirmala, Axa's granddaughter from Virginia.
“She has a huge zest for life. She takes pleasure in simple things. Ask her if she wants to try a new sari, she'll say ‘yes',” says another granddaughter, Vasantha from Florida.
Axa stays at Pozhichalur, Chennai, at her youngest child Linda's house. Linda's son Santhosh shares his tastes in television with Axa. “She enjoys watching Animal Planet and National Geographic,” says 30-year-old Santhosh.
Her resilience is another quality youngsters in the family admire. When she was 84, she had a fall and another one at 88. The second fall was severe and she had to undergo a major hip replacement surgery.
Axa now uses a walker to move around the house and manages to do a lot of things herself. Most importantly, her faculties are still sharp and her sense of humour is intact. And, she seems to be in good shape for many more birthdays.
