Lucy Venegas and her children, Irene, Rudy and Olivia

Sparks flew when Lucy Venegas received her first kiss from the man who would become her husband. It was New Year’s Eve in downtown Sacramento, 1935. Rudy was handsome and had a Model A Ford. Lucy was a beautiful 19-year-old graduate of Roseville High School. Sixty-eight years of marital bliss, three children and a life rich with family, church and community awaited them.

These days, Lucy receives a daily kiss from Elizabeth Ndena, a caregiver at Eskaton Care Center Fair Oaks. Every night, Elizabeth helps Lucy into her pajamas, gives her a hug and kiss, and tucks her into bed. Lucy calls Elizabeth her mommy because she takes care of her. “Elizabeth gives our mom loving care. She’s always looking out for her and makes Mom giggle. We all appreciate Elizabeth very much,” says Irene, Lucy’s eldest daughter. “She is very caring with my mom,” adds Rudy, Lucy’s son. It is clear that all three children, including daughter Olivia, appreciate the care that their mother receives. That’s why they recognized Elizabeth as a Guardian Angel.

At age 99, Lucy is gorgeous, engaging, and enjoying life. At her most recent birthday party, she sang “Que Sera, Sera” to her admiring family and friends. At any age, it’s nice to have a mommy.

Read more about Lucy at Here's Lucy, smiling at 99 years old

“I really have that caring for my residents. I love all of them and their family members.” – Elizabeth Ndena, caregiver