Johanna Mathina Schoeman celebrates her 100th birthday in Netcare Pinehaven Hospital (Photo supplied)
What should have been a big centenary celebration unexpectedly turned into a hospital birthday when Johanna Mathina Schoeman fell and broke her hip shortly before her 100th birthday.
Schoeman, who was due to celebrate her centenary with more than 100 family members and friends, fell off a chair in early April. She was admitted to Netcare Pinehaven Hospital and underwent surgery the following day.
After her initial recovery, she was transferred to a care unit for further rehabilitation. She returned home on April 18, where she resumed walking with determination and the help of a mobility aid.
Although the big birthday celebration had to be cancelled, family members who had already booked their trips still traveled to Johannesburg to visit her at her hospital bed. A smaller family gathering was held in the hospital with bright balloons, birthday cake and home-baked cupcakes.
According to her granddaughter, Chantelle Moorrees, Schoeman has always been characterized by discipline, independence and extraordinary vitality.
“She has always been incredibly active and strong-willed. Even at 100, she is still full of courage and determination.”
Schoeman still walks daily, loves gardening and remembers her years on the tennis court with great joy. She only stopped playing tennis at 86 and only said goodbye to bowling at 92.
“Even after that she never stopped moving,” says Moorrees.
According to Moorrees, her grandmother’s sharp mind is as remarkable as her physical resilience. Schoeman does daily word puzzles as part of her routine.
“It keeps her mind so sharp. She has this quiet determination. She just keeps going.”
Moorrees says it was moving for the family to see how Schoeman at the age of 100 endures an operation and still remains positive.
“To see her go through surgery at 100 and still come out of it with such strength was amazing. She doesn’t complain – not once. She just focuses on getting better. She’s been the heart of our family for generations.”
Johanna Mathina Schoeman with her son and daughter-in-law, Leon and Winnie Schoeman and Shalima Maharaj, general manager of Netcare Pinehaven Hospital (Photo supplied)
Schoeman grew up in Grahamstown and later lived in Hartbeespoort. She moved to Noordheuwel two years ago to live with her son and daughter-in-law, Leon and Winnie Schoeman, so she could be safer and closer to care. They also assisted her during her recovery.
Shalima Maharaj, general manager of Netcare Pinehaven Hospital, says Schoeman is recovering well, experiencing little pain and remains positive and determined to regain her full mobility.
“Celebrating 100 years of life is a special moment. To be part of that celebration, even in these unexpected circumstances, is a privilege,” says Maharaj.