‘I’ve had a happy and good life’: Man shares secret to long life as he turns 99
A 99-year-old man from east kilbride has shared the secret to his long and fulfilling life, attributing his longevity to a combination of staying active, a healthy lifestyle, and receiving dedicated care services. Harvey Littlejohn, who was born in Govan on November 6, 1925, has lived through nearly a century of changes, and continues to remain an active member of his community.
Harvey, who moved to east kilbride after his early years in Govan, married his wife Chris in 1952, and together they raised two sons, David and Stewart. He had a distinguished career with Rolls-Royce in east kilbride, where he worked for 25 years before retiring in 1990. Since then, Harvey has remained deeply engaged in his community, notably as chairman of an Education in retirement (EiR) group at westwood parish church, a role he has held for 37 years.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Harvey said, “I’ve had a happy and good life. I’m still going strong and trying to enjoy myself.” Despite his advanced years, Harvey continues to stay active, not only as a community leader but also as a founding member of the kilbride burns club, which celebrates the works of the famous scottish poet Robert Burns.
Harvey’s life has not been without its challenges. He has battled health issues over the years, including a heart attack in 2005 and recurring chest infections. However, his determination to remain independent and stay in his own home has been supported by a range of health and care services.
“I thought I might never get back home after my heart attack, but I’ve been well looked after,” Harvey admitted. “The care I’ve received has been great, and the staff who look after me at home are excellent. They come in twice a day and always remind me to use my walking stick, which I sometimes forget. We have a good laugh and a bit of fun.”
Harvey’s positive attitude and strong connection to his community are key factors in his long life, but he also attributes much of his wellbeing to staying active and maintaining a reasonably healthy diet. “The secret to a long life is to stay active and not take life too seriously,” he said.
More Read
Professor Soumen Sengupta, the chief officer of south lanarkshire university health and social care partnership, praised Harvey’s remarkable life and the support he has received from local health and social care services. He commented, “Harvey’s journey is a testament to both the outstanding care provided by our local services and his own steadfast spirit. His experience highlights the daily difference that our health and social care teams make to the lives of individuals and families.”
The south lanarkshire university health and social care partnership has been instrumental in introducing innovative services that have helped people like Harvey live independently and with dignity well into their later years. Professor Sengupta added, “My thanks go to all our service users, their families, and the wider community for supporting our staff in delivering these vital services.”
Harvey’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of community involvement, staying active, and receiving the right care. As he celebrates his 99th birthday, Harvey remains an inspiring figure, still going strong and encouraging others to live a life full of joy, laughter, and connection with those around them. His words of wisdom: “I’ve had a good life, and I’m thankful for it every day.”
