East twins celebrate 100th birthday

Pretoria East twins Hendrik and Anna Bredenkamp, who are the only two surviving children out of 11, are celebrating their centenary birthday on Saturday, 31 August.

Born in 1919, the twins have been “through it all”. They both reside in the Serene Park retirement centre in Garsfontein, with Hendrik living in a private unit across the road with his son Gerhard.

Rekord spoke with the pair on Wednesday, about their hobbies, interests, how they feel about turning 100 and what festivities their families have planned for them.

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For their 100th birthday, the twins will be treated to a festive party on Saturday, at the retirement facility, along with cake, loads of chocolates, biscuits and other treats and all their family and friends, many who have travelled far, are expected to attend.

Anna never had children, but Hendrik boasts with five children, 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

“About 13 of the 22 great-grandchildren will be attending the party. It’s sometimes difficult to get all family members in the same room as everybody is scattered around the world,” they told Rekord.

Both Anna and Hendrik are well-known in the facility as two people with quite a sense of humour. They both are avid readers, with Hendrik still taking to the Bible every day.

The twins like to shop. They like looking at clothing and know exactly what works for them and what not. Each week, they are treated to a trip to Menlyn Park shopping centre to do some shopping, go to the bank and enjoy a milkshake and a piece of cake at Parrots.

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Anna and Hendrik both enjoy the odd soccer match on television every now and then.

“I really do not even feel 100 years old. I feel like I have the mind of my 90-year-old self,” said Hendrik.

“We really appreciate all the trouble and care that have been bestowed upon us from our loving children, and we look forward to celebrating this day with everybody who will be coming,” they told Rekord.

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