In the heart of Rockcliffe Community in Scarborough, Ontario, lives a remarkable woman whose life story spans well over a century and is filled with resilience, love, and family. Chiung Hi Chou, fondly known as Po Po (grandmother in Chinese) by her family and the Rockcliffe staff, recently celebrated her 109th birthday. Her journey, shared by her granddaughter Samantha, is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the incredible support of family and caregivers.
Early Life in Guangzhou
Chiung Hi Chou was born around 1915 in Guangzhou, Mainland China. She married around the age of 15, a common practice of the time. Not long after, her life was changed forever when her husband went off to fight in the Japan War during World War II and never returned. Widowed at 20, Chiung Hi Chou raised three children on her own and began a life of independence that would define the next century of her life. Despite the challenges, she persevered, providing for her family and watching them grow and have their own families.
New Beginnings in Canada
In 1978, Chiung Hi Chou, her children and grandchildren, including Samantha, embarked on a new chapter, immigrating to Toronto, Canada. Samantha, who was ten years old then, recalls the culture shock and the stark contrast in weather upon their arrival in March. But despite all the changes, they embraced their new home and everything that it offered.
Chiung Hi Chou adapted to her new environment quickly. She learned to navigate the city, taking the subway and buses to explore neighbourhoods and making friends at the local mall, becoming part of the diverse community.
Samantha fondly remembers the time spent with her grandmother, who was indispensable in raising her and her sisters while her parents worked to establish themselves in their new country. 
Samantha remembers how her grandmother would reminisce about fetching water from wells and gathering wood from the mountains back in China. Food, a central theme in her stories, was often scarce, but the family always made the best of what they had.
While her grandmother always enjoyed traditional dishes from home the best, there were a few North American indulgences that became fast favourites. Samantha recalls the joy of accompanying her grandmother to McDonald's for Big Macs and local pizza parlours, creating treasured memories that still bring a smile to her face.
At 109, Chiung Hi Chou's love for food, especially Chinese delicacies, remains strong. From bao buns and egg tarts to anything sweet, she gets immense pleasure from a variety of treats. Despite her age, Chiung Hi Chou's appetite for life is undiminished. She enjoys homemade congee and mango cake, which her daughter brings daily. The family ensures she receives the best care, visiting regularly and keeping her company.
Cherished by the Rockcliffe Team
The staff at Rockcliffe affectionately call her Po Po and engage her in playful activities, such as counting games that she eagerly participates in. Her presence brings joy to everyone around her, and her life story continues to inspire all who hear it.
Mary Nelson, a recreation assistant at Rockcliffe, shares her deep affection for Chiung Hi Chou. "When I came to the neighbourhood on the first floor, I saw this beautiful lady," Mary recalls. "When she is happy, she sings in her language and always says thank you in her language."
"To us, she is the matriarch of the home area. We love every resident, but Po Po is special. She's one in a million."
Manjula Sukumar, a Personal Support Worker (PSW), also cherishes her interactions with Chiung Hi Chou. "She is very pleasant and can still express her feelings," Manjula shares. "When she's hungry, she taps her tummy. When she's upset, she taps her wheelchair. When she's happy, she sings a song." Manjula loves hearing Po Po sing, a signal that she's in a good mood, which often gets the other residents singing along, too.
Manjula appreciates the strong support from Chiung Hi Chou's family, noting how their presence brightens her day. "Caring for her and seeing her age so gracefully is gratifying."
A Legacy of Strength
Chiung Hi Chou's journey from Guangzhou to Scarborough is a remarkable testament to her resilience, strength, and family's enduring support. Her legacy lives on through her eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
As we celebrate her 109th birthday, we honour her longevity and her incredible life. Chiung Hi Chou's story reminds us of the power of family, the importance of heritage, and the beauty of a life well-lived. Happy Birthday, Po Po!
