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**My lovely “Daisy” transplanted from Vancouver to Kelowna**
Let me introduce you to Edna Riley… a real sweetheart! Edna spent most of her life in Vancouver. She was a client of David Nieman’s, of Driving Miss Daisy in Kitsilano, for a couple of years before moving to Kelowna in December, 2010, to be nearer her nephew Don Cobbett and his wife Laurie. Edna really enjoyed her outings with David; though it was sad to bid him farewell, she was very pleased to know that she would be able to continue her outings with “Daisy” in Kelowna. I now have the pleasure to take Edna out on a new adventure each week.
Edna is a very special lady who really loves people; she infuses positive energy to any gathering, and finds humour in almost any situation…her laughter is infectious! There are no dull moments when you’re around Edna. Edna’s a big fan of Elvis Presley (her stylish apartment showcases Elvis memorabilia), as well as other singers from the 50’s. Over the years Edna has attended various concerts and has met the likes of Pat Boone, Charlie Rich, Terry Jacks (Poppy Family), Elvis impersonators and Red Robinson of CKWY radio in Vancouver. In Reno she saw Tony Orlando perform, and at Bobby Vinton’s concert she was the first audience member to call out the answer to his question “What is the name of my book?” (Blue Velvet). As you can tell, Edna sure knows her trivia, as she is fond of reading biographies of famous people, especially her favourite stars.
Edna devoted many years to volunteering, first at Sunnyhill hospital for children (2 years), then an astounding 36 years (4 days per week) at BC Lung Association. Edna is the recipient of a gold medal and certificate from Queen Elizabeth II, in recognition of her dedication to volunteerism. The presentation of this award was done by the executive director of BC Lung, Scott McDonald, who walked up to Edna while she was on break eating her bologna sandwich and said: “I have something that I think you’ll like Edna…it’s from the Queen!” to which Edna said, “Oh, I’ve always liked her!” “As much as Elvis?” Scott asked. “Not quite!” Edna flatly replied. Holding the medal and certificate, and learning that only 9 others had received this honour, left Edna quite speechless!
Edna loves to host “Canuck” hockey on TV in her apartment for Don and some of his friends. Edna is particularly fond of a little boy, aged 5, who loves to come and see his “Aunt Edna”, get a Fudgsicle treat, and watch the game with the grown ups.
Edna and I usually go to the library and then have coffee and a lively chat at Edna’s favourite coffee shop, Blenz. One day, at a traffic light on our way to the library, a vehicle backed into the front bumper of my ‘Daisy mobile’. We didn’t feel the light impact, but the bumper was crushed. “Poor Daisy!” Edna exclaimed….followed by a gasp when she saw the damage. Fortunately, the repair was finished by our next outing the following week, and we still giggle about the time poor ‘Daisy’ got hurt.
Edna enjoys eating out, and trying new restaurants. One day we were at Orchard Park mall, and Edna tried poutine at New York Fries for the first time. She really liked it! She is also fortunate to have the former chef to Elton John cooking the meals at her seniors’ residence. His spare ribs are to die for!!
Well, it’s been almost one year since Edna moved to Kelowna. She’s feeling more at home here now. She chats daily with her sister Beth in Burnaby. She has made new friends and gets out often with Don and Laurie, who are so good to her. They frequent Walmart often, so the store is now affectionately known as Edmart. Edna tells me that her “Daisy” time with me is very special to her, and that makes me feel very good indeed!
….You are very special to me too Edna, dear friend. It is an honour to know you and a privilege to serve you!
Elyse Selig
Other Client Honorable Mentions
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