Runs in the Blood
This past weekend, I visited my grandmother, Lydia Fervoy—whom I call “Nonnie”—in St. Paul, Minnesota. Born in 1934, she will be celebrating her 91st birthday this June. Nonnie still lives independently in a home next door to my aunt and uncle, handling all her own cooking, dishes, and laundry. She moves with ease, without the aid of a cane or walker. What amazes me most is her tech-savviness—she regularly texts on her iPhone, stays active on Facebook, and even drops the occasional Instagram like. Her mind is as sharp as ever, and she isn’t afraid to speak it. “Heidi, did you buy your jeans ripped like that? It looks like you’re dressed in rags” or “Heidi, you should really add layers in your hair to give it more volume and shape- it’s too straight”. Her eyes are full of expression and sass. My favorite comment that Nonnie made this past weekend was when I asked if she could read a note on my phone from a distance (she still has perfect vision). She rolled her eyes at me, turned to my uncle, and said, “How old do they think I am?”
Nonnie is the epitome of a nurturer. She spent over 20 years working as a nurse, raised five children, and continues to shower her nine grandchildren with endless love. In the 1950s, Nonnie attended nursing school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin—the same city where my mom would later study physical therapy and where, 65 years after Nonnie, I would earn my own degree in physical therapy. It seems working in healthcare runs in the family, but our connection goes deeper than a shared career path.
While staying at her house, I noticed her bookshelf filled with books on spirituality, meditation, and holistic health. I always knew my mom and I shared an interest in holistic healing, but I hadn’t realized it traced back to my grandmother. When I asked Nonnie about it, she told me she vividly remembers walking into a bookstore after nursing school and feeling drawn to a book on spirituality—it practically jumped out at her. In an era when holistic health was far from mainstream, she was ahead of her time. I truly believe her lifelong commitment to these principles has played a major role in her vibrant health today.
Reflecting on my childhood at Nonnie’s house, I see patterns in her lifestyle that have likely contributed to her longevity:
· Nutrition: Nonnie always prepared fresh, homecooked meals- never relying on takeout or dining at restaurants. Her homemade lasagna and meat sauce, a Christmas tradition, are legendary. Takeaway: Cooking at home is key to avoiding processed ingredients, industrial seed oils, and excess sugar.
· Movement: While she never formally exercised (despite my mom’s encouragement), Nonnie was constantly active- gardening for hours, maintaining her spotless home, and even carrying laundry baskets up a steep staircase well into her late 80s. Takeaway: Movement is medicine, whether it’s structured exercise or simply staying active throughout the day.
· Creative expression: She has always been artistic- sewing, decorating, and painting beautiful artwork. Takeaway: We are all inherently creative- learn how to channel your unique creativity.
· Time in Nature: Despite her ongoing battle with chipmunks, Nonnie has always cherished the outdoors. Whether she’s tending to her garden or soaking in the sunshine on her patio, nature has been a constant source of joy. Takeaway: Immersing yourself in nature is not only restorative but also vital for overall well-being.
· Positive relationships: I have never heard her gossip or speak poorly of others. She nurtures lifelong friendships of 85 years and counting, maintained a loving, 48-year marriage to my grandpa, and always prioritized involvement in her community. Takeaway: Surround yourself with uplifting people. Avoid drama, it’s toxic and drains your energy.
· Mindset/Spirituality: Nonnie has always been strong-willed and resilient, relying on her faith, meditation, and prayer during difficult times. Takeaway: A strong spiritual foundation and a positive mindset can profoundly impact overall health- put the time into developing these.
Lydia Fervoy is one of my greatest inspirations. If I can age with even half of her grace and vitality, I’ll consider myself fortunate. I am deeply grateful for the invaluable lessons she has passed down, and I will continue to implement these pillars of well-being in my own life—while also using them to guide others on their path to health and wellness.