At Waldorf seniors’ residence in Côte Saint-Luc, birthdays are celebrated almost daily.
But on Sunday, the residence marked a milestone – they celebrated nine people who will celebrate their 100th birthday this year.
“It’s a long time to get here,” said Mike Levine, who will be turning 101 this year.
The seniors will join a group of 20 people at the residence – seven men and 13 women – who are all over 100 years old.
READ MORE: 5 Montrealers celebrate their 100th birthday
“Well, I never thought it was gonna be me,” said Doris Lerner Schwartz.
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Ruth Horwitz will be celebrating her 105th birthday on Monday, and she says she feels grateful to be living such a long life.
“I feel very fortunate,” she said. “You have to have lucky genes.”
READ MORE: 100-year-old woman says she has a beer and three potato chips a day
Her daughter says her longevity is due to much more than luck.
“She’s always made sure to eat right, that was very important and she does have a very positive attitude – she never complains,” said Fran Krane.
Along with family and friends, a few elected officials were also among those who attended the festivities.
They mingled with guests, trying to uncover what the secret is to living so long.
READ MORE: 100-year-old woman says the key to longevity is drinking wine
The answers, depended on who you asked.
“I take part in exercise whenever I can and my family is always there to care for me,” said Horwitz.
For others, a positive outlook on life is key.
“I learn to make the best of what I have,” said Donald Brown.