Retirement home asks for 106 birthday cards for woman turning 106
A retirement home is asking for 106 birthday cards to be mailed to one of their centenarians in celebration of her 106th birthday.
Venus Tucker, a resident of Our Lady of the Valley in Roanoke, Virginia, was born Aug. 13, 1914.
It was the same year baseball legend Joe DiMaggio and actress Hedy Lamarr were born, and Ford Motor Co. announced a new minimum wage for factory workers of $5 an hour. It also marked the start of World War I.
"I don't understand why I have been allowed to reach 106 years old," Tucker said in a statement to "Good Morning America." "I am blessed and moved by God and the Holy Spirit for keeping me here for so many years."
Tucker was married to a railroad worker named Wesley. She has three nieces, a nephew and a sister who is 96. She was actively involved in church, and stopped driving only a few years ago.
Due to restrictions with COVID-19, a large birthday celebration is on hold.
In the meantime, Our Lady of the Valley's staff has arranged for a "card party," with the goal of receiving 106, or more, birthday cards.
Cards from children, churches or other organizations are welcomed and encouraged, and they can be mailed to Our Lady of the Valley, attention Sandie Donald, 650 N. Jefferson Street, Roanoke, VA 24016.
When asked what else would make her day extra special, Tucker said she'd like to enjoy some fried chicken.
