Magdalene Vuadreu embodies a spirit of elegance and grace as she reflects on her vibrant life at 96 years old. Over the years, she has embraced both the joys and challenges that life has presented her, finding particular happiness in her close-knit family.
Recalling her early years, Ms. Vuadreu fondly remembers her time spent in the highlands of Nadarivatu with her husband and children, considering those moments to be some of her most treasured memories. She shares her life story with a twinkle in her eye, discussing her childhood in the Saint Joan of Arc convent in Sigatoka, where she and her sister stayed from ages six to fourteen. Despite the circumstances that led her there—her mother leaving her and her sister in their grandfather’s care—Ms. Vuadreu speaks warmly of her experiences at the convent, where they grew their own food and enjoyed activities like diving for freshwater mussels.
Her heritage is a blend of Irish and Maori roots, and she expresses pride when talking about her grandfather, Loqorio Kunalevu, who faced challenges due to his relationship with a Maori woman. She reflects on her family history, mentioning how her grandmother brought her mother back to Fiji, which further enriches her personal narrative.
After marrying, she moved to Nadarivatu, where she honed various life skills such as knitting, sewing, and farming, which allowed her to contribute meaningfully to her community and family life. Ms. Vuadreu’s dedication to social work brought her great fulfillment, as she mentored many women and shared her knowledge generously. Despite the hardships that came with the passing of her husband in 1997, she finds strength and comfort in her loving grandchildren, who play a vital role in her healing process.
As she navigates her later years, battling memory impairment, Ms. Vuadreu remains determined, expressing a desire for good health and the independence to enjoy her long life. Cared for by her daughters and embraced by her grandchildren, she continues to be surrounded by love and support, showcasing the wonderful bonds that family can create through life’s highs and lows.
This inspiring story of resilience and love serves as a reminder of the importance of family connections and cherishing our memories. Ms. Vuadreu’s life illustrates that even in the face of adversity, positivity can thrive through the relationships we build and the wisdom we pass on to future generations.
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