By Matthew Sims
Altona Meadows resident Mildred ‘Millie’ Andrew has seen the world change around her many times over during her 108 years, but she said she has always tried to live a peaceful and simple life.
Born and raised in Williamstown, she lived in the Williamstown area until she was 95 and has been a resident of the Benetas St George’s aged care facility for about 14 years.
Mrs Andrew said she came from a large family.
“There were seven of us, three boys, four girls,” she said.
Mrs Andrew first discovered her passion for caring for disabled children about 68 years ago when she and her friend gave birth around the same time and her friend’s son had cerebral palsy.
She was a carer and manager at the former Footscray Spastic Children’s Centre from 1953 to 1972 and she also helped raise funds for the Scope Chislon centre in Maidstone – for people with multiple disabilities and high support needs – where she was a carer for more than 20 years.
Mrs Andrew said from simple beginnings, the centre was supporting 81 children when she left.
“Some of them did quite well, they learned to talk,” she said.
“I feel that we did all we could.”
Mrs Andrew’s husband’s Jack passed away in 1979.
“He was a good husband and father,” she said.
Mrs Andrew’s daughter Susan Childs passed away in 2021.
She celebrated her 108th birthday and Australia Day with her grandchildren Sharon and Trevor Childs.
“I’ve got two wonderful grandchildren,” she said.
“I’m very fortunate.”
Mrs Andrew said her other passions have included living near the water, cooking and gardening.
“I don’t think I could have ever lived far from the water,” she said.
Having only had one hospital stay during her 108 years, Mrs Andrew said her secret to a long life was simple.
“I don’t believe in doctors, I never have,” she said.
However, Mrs Andrew said she also had another key message for everyone looking to live a long and fulfilling life.
“Be kind to everybody,” she said.
“I’ve always tried to be kind.
“If you’ve got a faith and you believe in God intrinsically, life is a blessing.”
