“Berthe is an inspiration to us all”: Foyer Soleil’s oldest tenant celebrates her 100th birthday

Berthe Vidal moved into the Foyer Soleil 26 years ago. VR

Surrounded by her family, friends, and home care service, the centenarian honored the 120-slice cake prepared by the cooks of the Millau facility.

Arriving at the age of 74 at the Foyer Soleil, Berthe Vidal has just celebrated her hundredth birthday. Surrounded by her family, friends, and home care service, the centenarian honored the 120-slice cake prepared by the cooks of the Millau facility.

Born on September 13, 1924 in Brussac, in a family of farmers specialized in sheep and cow breeding, Berthe Vidal grew up in the heart of rural traditions. As a child, she divided her time between school and work on the farm. From a young age, she was involved in agricultural tasks, helping her parents in the maintenance of livestock and fields.

A love story

Berthe's childhood was not always easy. As a young girl, she not only worked on the family farm, but was also hired out on surrounding farms for extra work. At the age of 20, through her sister, she met Louis, a charming young man who shared the same values ​​of work and dedication. Their meeting was the beginning of a lasting love story. They married shortly after, forming a united couple with a shared vision of life.

From this union were born two children: Louis and Anne-Marie who are still very present in her life. The couple then decided to settle in Saint-Germain, where they built a fulfilling family life. Berthe taking on the role of glove maker at home to raise their children, and her husband working in a factory not far from their home, in Millau.

This 2CV driven with pride 

But Berthe's story doesn't end there. She is also proud to have been one of the first women in the town to obtain her driver's license. At a time when driving was still largely dominated by men, Berthe took the initiative to get her license. She then bought a 2CV, a symbol of autonomy and modernity, which she drove with pride. Following the death of her husband, Berthe went through a period of deep grief.

To overcome this ordeal, she chose to travel. Her travels were a source of comfort and discovery, allowing her to have new experiences. “Madame Vidal is a source of inspiration for all of us”, declared the director of the Foyer Soleil. “Her life is an example of resilience, love, dedication and above all humor.” Indeed, her liveliness of mind allows her an unequaled repartee!” Saturday, September 21, she will blow out her candles with her children and grandchildren!

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