The votes are in! Silver Planet members have selected Marion Downs as the Silver Star of the Year for 2008. Silver Stars are extraordinary, inspiring seniors who embrace a new view on aging. They live active and meaningful lives on their own terms. Congratulations, Marion!
Marion, 95, pioneered the first hearing screening programs for newborns. As a result of her efforts, 90% of all newborns in America today are screened for hearing loss. The Marion Downs Hearing Center at the University of Colorado Hospital ? Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colorado, was created to honor the legacy of Marion Downs. The Center is recognized worldwide for its unique leadership and progressive innovations in the realm of hearing and deafness.
The upbeat, spirited Dr. Downs?who officially retired decades ago but hasn?t really sat back and relaxed?has written a ?guide to living to a ripe old age? titled Shut Up and Live! While she offers some of the usual tips?like exercise and laugh more?she also throws out some advice to get off your duff, love and enjoy sex, rebel against your aches and pains, and live out your passions. Her incredible zest for life is shown in her lectures and gold medals won competing in the Senior Olympics well into her 90s. Read
Marion?s full story, and view
Silver Planet's video tribute to her.
A special honorable mention for Mardo Williams, an amazing Silver Star who died at age 95, while finishing his inspirational novel One Last Dance. Congratulations to Mardo?s family.
Andora Quinby, a Pennsylvania woman who recently turned 90, also receives an honorable mention. This incredibly motivated senior received her master?s degree at age 75 and is the oldest female competing in the International All-Round Weightlifting Association.
Other Silver Stars from 2008 are Faith Ireland, Ray Jenkins, Kyra Petrovskaya Wayne, Harry Rutstein, Eugene Curnow, Mildred Heath, and Itka Zygmuntowicz. All are inspiring individuals who truly embrace a new view on aging.
CONGRATULATIONS to Marion and all the Silver Stars!