Intergenerational Discussions Surrounding Health, Community, & Life                           

On February 1, 12th graders Sanna Gilyard and Anaya Thomas met with Ms. Sudell Cirwithen from the West Philadelphia Senior Community Center. Ms. Sudell loves writing, singing and being a positive role model for young people. Her warm energy resonated with the local 12th graders, and she felt comfortable showing everyone her singing. The three individuals talked about healthy eating, community, and life. For Ms. Sudell, healthy eating meant having a balanced meal that consisted of meat, starch, and vegetables. Ms.Sudell encourages individuals to cook more at home as a healthy eating tip because it’s a more nutritious and financially savvy option. At 82, Ms.Sudell would love to explore being more creative. Her interests in drawing and art resonated with the 12th graders as they both agreed on their love for the arts. Regarding life tips, Ms. Sudell reflected on her isolated life in South Carolina but appreciated her time as it made her more appreciative of life. Her advice for the youth and motto in life is to keep a “Head Up, Pray Up, and Focus on what you’re doing!”

Take Away Quote: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away!”

Stay Tuned-Full interview video coming soon!

~Emilia Onuonga, University of Pennsylvania ’23