SOON to be centenarian Betty Rose says keeping active is the secret to living a long and prosperous life.
The Marebello Aged Care resident is set to celebrate her 100th birthday on March 23 with family and friends, but only if she does not sleep through the party this time.
Grandson Dane Rose said he and his wife had prepared a big celebration for her 98th birthday, only to find Ms Rose sound asleep when they arrived at the home.
Despite their best attempts to wake her, they had to leave a note and the cake, flowers, party hats and balloons that they had organised for her special day.
They are hoping that she will be able to reflect on her amazing life with her loved ones this time around.
"Betty's secret to living so long has been walking and staying active," Mr Rose said.
"She used to just walk everywhere until she was 97, then she had a fall and broke her hip.
"Her lifetime love and passion has been gardening. She loves anything related to the garden."
Mr Rose shares a strong bond with his grandmother, having married on the same day as her 85th birthday.
He said she had endured a tough life, having lost her husband Wally 38 years ago and her only son Wayne 23 years ago.
She was also hit by a car while walking on a pedestrian crossing shortly before watching her grandson tie the knot.
Despite the hardships she had suffered, she loved seeing her two grandsons and four great granddaughters as often as possible.
"Grandma is a lovely gentle soul who lights up like a Christmas tree whenever she sees our six and 12-year-old," Mr Rose said.
Mr Rose said they tried to visit every two to three weeks despite struggling to find the time between working and looking after their children.
Ms Rose has lived at Marebello since 2016. She spent most of her life in the Newcastle and Central Coast areas of New South Wales before moving to Queensland 11 years ago.
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