The former teacher and artist Lucia Ronda, born in 1914, will be honored this Tuesday, April 22, with a birthday party in Marcignago, Lombardy. She turns 111 and is the oldest woman in the region, according to those responsible for the “La Risaia” Nursing Home, where she currently lives.
Lucia was born in Casalmaggiore, in the province of Cremona, and was one of the first students of the traditional Brera Academy, in Milan. While still young, he worked with the sculptor Luciano Minguzzi and participated in the creation of one of the portals of the Milan Duomo, one of the main symbols of the city.
After his artistic career, he devoted himself to teaching, teaching in different Italian regions, such as Liguria and Molise. For a period, he lived with his nephew Paolo Zani in his hometown.
Lucia is currently living under medical care and is closely monitored by another nephew, Paolo Beduschi, who visits her frequently. Despite her advanced age and her memory affected by the pandemic, she continues to demonstrate gratitude and serenity in her daily life.
“You are our sunshine,” says Beatrice, the nursing home’s educator, as she wakes up each morning with a smile. According to the caretakers, Lucia even took portraits of the staff during her early years there, demonstrating her artistic sensitivity.
On the eve of the celebration, she was already showing enthusiasm: “I am happy because yesterday I took part in a party,” she said in a low voice, unaware that the official celebration was yet to come. A local confectioner prepares a large cake to accommodate the 111 candles.
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