Who doesn’t love something that is given to them for free? Surely, 105-year-old Edythe Kirchmaier too didn’t mind being given a brand-new 2013 Honda Civic by an anonymous benefactor. After you learn a little more about Edythe, you will agree that she really deserved this vehicle more than many of us do. Turns out she is something of a philanthropist, who for the past 40 years has volunteered with Direct Relief, giving medications to those in need.
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In fact, many might even remember seeing her on TV, spreading the good word on talk shows like The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and Access Hollywood Live. It truly is inspiring that even at this old age, she thinks about the well-being of others rather than relaxing on a couch at home. Hence, it comes as no surprise that when someone learnt about her minivan that she had since 1997, breaking down often, the person gave her a brand new car, so her philanthropic endeavors wouldn’t be hampered in any way.
Besides being the selfless person that she is, Edythe has also never had any traffic violations, accidents and has never been handed a ticket in her 86 years of driving. It might also astound you to know that she recently did great on a driving test and got her driver’s license renewed. You might have only heard of the Ford Model T or seen it in museums or on TV, but Edythe learnt how to drive on a Model T, when she was 19.
Another feather in her cap is the fact that she holds the distinction of being the oldest person registered on Facebook. On the occasion of her 105th birthday, it was Edythe’s wish that 105,000 people like Direct Relief on Facebook. She got her wish and the world’s largest virtual cake on the Direct Relief Facebook page was lit by her admirers.
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Probably, the secret of Edythe’s long life can be attributed to the fact that she spent a large part of it enriching the lives of others. So those of you who want to live a long and healthy life should probably take a leaf out of the pages of Edythe’s life. We doff our hats to this amazing lady and also to the person whose generous gesture of giving a vehicle will help Edythe help a few more people in need.
