Helen, Going Strong at 100

I first met Helen 55 years ago. At the time she was 45, so yes, she turns 100 this year, which happens to be today.

She's remarkable. She is able to walk up and down the 50 stairs to her house from the street level every day. She is fully engaged in conversation and even remembers everyone's names.

She didn't want a big celebration, and her daughters agreed. They scheduled three events, each consisting of 15-30 people so Helen could spend time with each person. On Saturday there was a barbecue at one daughter's house. Today was a two-table luncheon at a restaurant in the Chinatown Cultural Plaza. On Wednesday there will be another luncheon with people coming from the Mainland.

We're exhausted, but she's going strong.