NECIC Elder Spotlight: Patricia Dunn

Our North End Elders are the cornerstone of our community. Their rich history and extensive experience lay the groundwork on which future generations build. Therefore, it is our great honor to share their stories in our Elder Spotlight.

Patricia Dunn

Many people dread growing older and complain about their age. Not Patricia Dunn. A member of the NECIC North End Elder Program, and newest NECIC Board member, she embraces every day and celebrates her age.

“I’m turning 71 on August 31, and I’m having a big birthday party,” she said. “I have a big party every year.”

Enjoying life is the key to her youthful demeanor. “I like to play cards, dance, and gamble at the casinos,” she said. “You only get old when you are thinking old.”

Mrs. Dunn enjoys bowling and has won several trophies, but her favorite thing, she will tell you without hesitation, is to hit the casino. “My most exciting moment was when I won $2,500 at the casino at Wheeling Downs,” she said with a smile.

She has been a member of the NECIC North End Elder program for four years. “I like just coming and seeing the people, playing games, having lunch,” she said. Many of her friends and family attend the program, as well, and she enjoys spending time with them.

New to the NECIC Board of Directors, she is anxious to see how her role plays out, but is happy to be a part of it. NECIC’s bylaws state that the majority of its board must be North End residents, and Mrs. Dunn fits the bill. She represents the North End Elder population in her seat on the NECIC Board of Directors.

Mrs. Dunn has raised her family, and is enjoying her golden years. Her three sons are grown, as well as two of her six grandchildren, all with busy lives and accomplishments of their own.

Her advice to others as they age is simple, “If you are getting older, just get out. Open the curtains up on your windows, look outside, and thank God for every day. You have a birthday - buy yourself something, have a party, go out to eat or something. Celebrate it, because that’s another year God gave you.”