Fredie Blom, who at 114 years old could be the oldest man in the world, was treated like a celebrity on Thursday, at an event where 500 seniors were pampered and entertained in Delft.
The event formed part of Mandela Day initiatives this week.
HONOUR: Fredie Blom and his wife, Jeanette, are showered with gifts at event. Video: Genevieve Serra
The golden oldies were treated to warm drinks, snacks, cakes, gifts and entertainment at the Delft Civic Centre.
HOT STUFF: Oldies enjoyed food and drink at the party. Photo: Jack Lestrade
The event was arranged by a number of community organisations, including the Delft Seniors Forum, Local Network, Echo Neighbourhood Watch and Women’s Circle.
Fredie walked into the packed hall with his wife, Jeanette Blom, 85, by his side and the couple was applauded, as they made their way to their table.
Gadija Francis, a community development worker and a member of the Delft Seniors Forum, asked everyone to stand up and honour him: “This man is 114 years old and he is the oldest person in the world. He doesn’t live in America, but right here in Delft, don’t you think that is amazing.”
As Fredie sat down, several oumas, some using walking aids, approached him to wrap blankets they had knitted for him around his body.
NOU SOE: Seniors show they got moves at Delft Civic Centre. Photo: Jack Lestrade
An excited Ellen Andrews, 72, rushed to Fredie and kissed him on the cheek.
“I feel so wonderful because I always wanted to meet him and now he is here. Now I can even have a photograph with him,” she said.
Fredie was showered with gifts from Clicks and Avroy Shlain and he was asked to draw a number out of a hat for a raffle prize.
“I feel so good,” Fredie said after receiving hugs and kisses from his fans.
HONOUR: Fredie Blom, who at 114 years old could be the oldest man in the world, was treated like a celebrity. Video: Genevieve Serra
Jeanette said she feels honoured to be at an event with the elderly because she is the only survivor of 12 siblings.
Sassa staff members were also present assisting the elderly with new applications or new registrations inside the hall.
Gadija told the hundreds of pensioners that their role as community workers was to assist them. “We are here to help you, we do not want you to feel like you are alone,” said Gadija. “Many of you might have troubles at home and you feel like you are alone, but we are here for you.” Mense enjoyed themselves eating and dancing and ooh’d and aah’d over their gifts from Avroy Shlain.
Fredie is believed to be oldest man in the world. Guinness World Records certified 112-year-old Masazo Nonaka of northern Japan as the world’s oldest man this year.wes
Guinness has yet to respond to queries about Fredie’s claim.