It’s not every day you get to ride down Main Street like a grand marshal, but for one special birthday girl in Oklahoma, a lifelong dream finally came true. Myda Lewis, a resident of Stillwater’s Westhaven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, comes from a family known for their long lives. In the days leading up to her 107th birthday on June 21, one of her caregivers asked if there was anything she had always wanted to do.
As it turns out, there was: having lived in Stillwater since 1919, Myda had always dreamed of riding in a convertible during a parade. At first, no parade was planned in the small town just west of Tulsa—but her caregivers quickly found a convertible and decided to drive her around in style. Once word got out, the whole community saw a reason to celebrate.
Soon, plans for an impromptu parade came together to honor Myda! A Facebook group was created, the local press caught wind of it, and before long, the excitement spread. When Myda’s dusty gold Mercedes started its slow roll down Main Street, a crowd had gathered along the five-block stretch, waving banners, tossing confetti, and wearing party hats. It turned into one of the biggest birthday celebrations the town had ever seen.
Toni Ivey, a local resident, pitched in by making signs and setting up along the parade route with her three kids. The atmosphere was pure joy. “We’re out here because what a great way to celebrate! After all, who gets to be 107?” she said. “And if she wants a parade, by golly, we’re going to give it to her! The world really needs this kind of happiness right now.”
The whole town rallied together. Along the route, a large pink umbrella offered some shade from the summer heat as people rushed up to give Myda balloons, flowers, and cards. For her big moment, Myda dressed the part: she wore a soft pink gown, a white sash bedazzled with “107” in rhinestones, and a sparkling tiara on her head.
It was a beautiful tribute to a woman who has lived an extraordinary life. As for her secret to longevity? Myda credits an active and healthy lifestyle she’s maintained since childhood. Though, she added with a laugh, living to 107 was never the goal—”I just always wanted to have a cute figure,” she joked.
Congratulations, Miss Myda, on reaching such a remarkable milestone! Wishing you many more happy, love-filled years. Share this story to send Myda your birthday wishes and to celebrate the community that came together to make her dream come true!