By Andrew Hackmack
This year, Estelle Sanzone celebrated her 100th birthday and was extremely grateful for all those who joined her on her special day.
Sanzone is a resident at the Orzac Center for Extended Care and Rehabilitation in North Valley Stream, adjacent to Franklin Hospital. Before moving into the nursing home on Nov. 11, 1998, she resided in Lynbrook. Orzac Center officials say that while every birthday there is important, someone turning 100 is obviously a special occasion.
"I'm not going to cry because it's my birthday," Sanzone promised to a room full of well-wishers, which included hospital staff, fellow residents and a few close friends. Sitting beside her was Elizabeth Efferson, her best friend at the Orzac Center.
Friendship is one of the most important parts of life, Sanzone explained. She never had any children, so many of her closest relationships are with friends. Her mother taught her that in order to have friends, one has to be a friend. "That is what I've tried to do all of these years," she said. "To be a friend, you've got to show people that you love them."
Sanzone was born in Brooklyn and lived for 10 years in Europe. Her husband Joe was in the service and they were married for more than 50 years.
The second floor cafeteria at the Orzac Center was filled with pink and white balloons for her birthday celebration. Following an interview with local television stations, it was time for cake. With the help of others, Sanzone blew out 10 candles -- one for each decade -- then cut the first piece. She admitted that cake is one of her favorite foods. She also loves Nathan's hot dogs and candy.
Carolyn Dusablon, recreation director at the Orzac Center, said that Sanzone is still very active and is a past president of the resident council. Dusablon explained that Sanzone is very patriotic and her favorite song is "God Bless America." After group sing-alongs, Sanzone always asks her fellow residents to remember and pray for the troops overseas.
"She's very sweet," Dusablon said. "I don't think she ever has a bad word to say about anyone."
Laraine Memola, the recreation leader, said that Sanzone's secret to a long and happy life is her positive attitude. "She's an inspiration to me," Memola said.
Sanzone had two special visitors that day -- Sadie Cantone her former home companion and Sophie DeBetta, her niece who she affectionately calls "mom." Both reside in Valley Stream. "We promised we'd never forget her and we haven't," Cantone said.
Cantone spent two years as Sanzone's home companion, taking her to the doctor and doing her food shopping. "She's such a wonderful woman," Cantone said. "She appreciates everybody."
As for Sanzone, she never expected such a big celebration for her 100th birthday. It's just another example, she said of the fine and dedicated staff at the Orzac Center. "I feel very humbled," she said. "There's no way I can express myself, the love attention they've given me all these years."
Comments about this story? AHackmack@ liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 265.
