Bea McGrath: Looking on the positive side of COVID-19

Bea McGrath is the person we’d all want to be if we were blessed to live 99 years, and she feels grateful to have received the COVID-19 vaccine.

Born in Saskatoon, Bea has lived most of her life in LeRoy, apart from spending a few years in Ottawa after signing up for the Air Force during WWII. Upon her return, Bea married her fiancé Gerald and together they raised seven boys and four girls. After Gerald passed, Bea moved to Trinity Manor in Saskatoon.

“My children couldn’t have found a better place than Trinity Manor,” she said. “Being a resident of Trinity Manor is also how I received the vaccine, and the young nurse who gave me the shot was so gentle I didn’t even feel it.” Bea further reflected, “I feel blessed and very lucky and grateful to the health authority for the care they have given to the seniors of our province.”

Bea’s interests and attitude toward life have been a great contributor to her longevity. “Besides gardening, playing cards, puzzles and fishing, I have always been an avid sports person, both as a participant and fan. I love the arts, especially music and the theatre,” she said.

Bea is also a published author, having penned the LeRoy Hockey History book and tried her hand at acting at 89 years of age. However, her love of travel is unparalleled, having spent January and February in Maui the last nine years.

When asked how she felt about COVID-19 after having experienced so much in her rich life, Bea responded “Well, I always try to see the positive side in life, and with COVID I just had to adapt.” She also noted that “a loving family, daily exercise, healthy eating and the odd Corona beverage keeps me going.”

Bea, you’re an inspiration. So, let’s all wear our masks, wash our hands and physical distance to protect treasures like Bea.