Getting Old and Getting Out
In New York City
byHerb Bardavid
This is Suzelle
I sat down on the bench at Verdi Park next to Suzelle. I introduced myself and explained to her that I would like to photograph and interview her for my Getting Old and Getting Out blog. She agreed.
Suzelle is an 82-year-old native of France who initially came to the United States in 1965 to pursue her master's degree at the University of Massachusetts, and then planned to return to France. However, as the play "Of Mice and Men," says, the best-laid plans often go astray.
Suzelle met her husband, a native New Yorker who was also pursuing his Master's Degree in English at UMass, and she has been in the United States ever since.
She said that it turned out to be a wonderful life living in the United States. She now has a son, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren that she sees frequently.
She has no regrets for her decision to stay.
The late 1960s and early '70s were a time of social awakening for Suzelle and her husband. They became active participants in the Anti-War Movement against the Vietnam War, dedicating their time to grassroots organizing and working closely with the American Friends Service Committee (the Quakers). They were living in Stockbridge, Mass., at that time.
By the mid-1970s, her husband's work required them to move to New York City. Suzelle said she immediately fell in love with living in Manhattan.
She pointed out that it is both a great place for someone who wants to retire. Public transportation is everywhere. Movies, plays, and every type of social involvement are available. And it is a wonderful place for young people just starting out their lives.
Although she spoke of the advantages of retirement in Manhattan, she also spoke of the challenges. These primarily centered around the realities of aging. Suzelle has faced increasing difficulties with her mobility.
Many stations in the NYC subway system still lack necessary elevators, making daily transit difficult. She has always loved going to the movies and Broadway plays, but the rising cost of theater tickets has turned these pastimes into an expensive luxury.
Suzelle's world remains full. She is grounded by a close-knit family. Although she chose to divorce her husband, she remains friendly with him and on good terms. They once babysat their grandchildren together, long after their divorce. She sees her son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren often.
She also has a close group of friends. She had an appointment to meet with them today and pointed out to me that she had to leave because she did not want to keep them waiting.
Suzelle loves living in New York City, and although she is getting old, she continues to get out every day that she can.