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Celebration

104 years old: A special Scottsdale birthday celebration

Posted 10/7/20

Horns were honking, balloons were flying, and happy birthday, feliz cumpleaños songs streamed from car windows.

Scottsdale resident Maria Abramo turned 104 years old Oct. 5, and received a …

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Celebration

104 years old: A special Scottsdale birthday celebration

Posted

Scottsdale resident Maria Abramo turned 104 years old Oct. 5, and received a birthday party she’ll never forget — a drive-by birthday parade, which took place outside of her home.

Horns were honking, balloons were flying, and happy birthday, feliz cumpleaños songs streamed from car windows.

The drive-by parade was organized by employees of UnitedHealthcare, Ms. Abramo’s health insurance company.

In total, 41 vehicles and one motorcycle drove by her home, while Ms. Abramo watched from the safety of her driveway, surrounded by her family and birthday balloons.

“It’s important for us to take care of each and every one of our members, especially during a pandemic, when so many older adults are feeling isolated,” said Jean Kalbacher, CEO of Community Plan of Arizona. “When her case manager learned about our member Maria’s monumental birthday, she felt inspired to do something that would make Maria feel really special and connected to the community. What better way to convey her importance in an environment of social distancing than with a car parade, just for her!”

Ms. Abramo said that the experience was so fun and gave her so much life and joy that she wishes she could live to 107 years old!