Jade Small
Jade Small
December 11, 2024 ·  3 min read

I’m 108 – the secret to a long life is having dogs instead of children

When Ada Daniel celebrated her remarkable 108th birthday, she shared a surprising tip for living a long and happy life. According to Ada, the secret to her impressive age isn’t found in special diets or elaborate routines—it’s simply choosing to have dogs instead of children.

A Grand Celebration for a Life Well-Lived

elderly woman holding juice
Ada Daniel, who resides at Codnor Park Care Home in Derbyshire, got more than 300 cards from well-wishers. Ada pictured in May

Ada, who resides at Codnor Park Care Home in Derbyshire, marked her milestone birthday in style. Over 300 well-wishers sent her cards, including a heartfelt message from King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The care home community rallied together to make the day unforgettable, filling the space with balloons, gifts, and an outpouring of love.

Dogs, Not Kids: Ada’s Life Philosophy

elderly person sitting in a chair.
Kelly also said that Ada had been excited for her birthday since the beginning of April – so the nursing home decided to launch an appeal to help her celebrate. Ada pictured in January

According to the care home’s activity coordinator, Kelly Goucher, Ada has always been clear about her secret to longevity. When asked about it, Ada quipped that having dogs instead of children was her winning formula. She shared that her life was filled with the company of greyhounds, each affectionately named after her street, “Street Lane.”

A Community That Came Together

elderly person sitting and holding a pan
The outlet said Ada enjoyed a daily walk into Ripley until she was 97, and didn’t go into care until she turned 103. Pictured in March 2022

As Ada eagerly anticipated her birthday celebrations months in advance, the care home decided to launch a card appeal on social media. Their efforts paid off—Ada woke up to over 135 messages of support in just one morning. By the time her birthday arrived, hundreds of cards poured in, making her special day even more memorable.

A Personal Touch From Royalty

King Edwards Crown to be used by King Charles III for his Coronation sits on a purple pillow with a purple background.
Source: Shutterstock

One of the highlights of Ada’s day was receiving a personalized message from King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The note congratulated her on her remarkable milestone and expressed warm wishes for her continued happiness and health.

A Life Rooted in Independence

Pensioner walks down street. Grandmother in Russia. Woman with walking stick. Elderly man in town.
Source: Shutterstock

Born in 1915 in Ambergate, Ada lived an active life well into her later years. She enjoyed daily walks to the town of Ripley until the age of 97 and only moved into care at 103. Her love for the outdoors and her dogs kept her physically and emotionally vibrant for decades.

A Glimpse Into Ada’s Past

Vintage photo of a cute young couple. Old black and white photo, slightly yellowed by time. Photo taken in the USSR around 1940s-1950s.
Source: Shutterstock

Ada married her late husband Percy in 1944. Percy, who served in the war, passed away at the age of 73. While the couple didn’t have children, Ada’s life was rich with the companionship of her beloved pets and a close-knit community.

An Inspiration to Many

Many candels in birthday cake
Source: Shutterstock

Ada’s story has touched the hearts of countless people. Her longevity and wit continue to inspire those around her, with many drawn to her joyful spirit and the unconventional wisdom she shares. Ada’s 108th birthday wasn’t just a celebration of her age but also of the incredible life she has led. Whether it was the love of her greyhounds, her active lifestyle, or her enduring sense of humor, Ada’s journey reminds us all to embrace what brings us happiness. Ada’s story leaves us with a simple yet profound lesson: finding joy in companionship—be it human or canine—may be one of the most meaningful secrets to a long and fulfilling life.

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