Catherine Davis, courtesy of AARP, Wish of a Lifetime

Barbados celebrates its centenarians’ remarkable lives and contributions by issuing commemorative stamps, paying tribute to those who have reached the milestone of 100 years and beyond. At 102 years old, Catherine Davis celebrated by fulfilling a lifelong dream of visiting Washington, D.C., and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Davis is a living testament to the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of Black Americans who have shaped history through struggle and sacrifice. Born in 1922 to sharecroppers in the segregated South, Davis’ life has been a journey of hard work, profound experiences, and an unyielding commitment to community. From a young age, confronting the brutal realities of segregation and economic hardship, the lessons instilled by her parents, resilience, self-sufficiency, and a drive to create a better future fueled her determination. Her story is a powerful reflection of the perseverance of those who lived through some of the most challenging periods of American history.

Davis, became more aware of the racial injustices that defined the era in which she lived. She, like many others, was deeply moved by the civil rights movement, and she took an active role in fighting for equality. In 1963, Davis participated in the historic Walk to Freedom March in Detroit, which was led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The march, which attracted over 125,000 participants, was one of the largest civil rights demonstrations in the country at the time and a defining moment in the movement.

Catherine Davis, courtesy of AARP, Wish of a Lifetime

For Davis, marching alongside Dr. King was a powerful, unforgettable experience. She described the moment as a pivotal point in her life, one that solidified her resolve to continue advocating for justice and equality. The sight of so many people of all races coming together for a common cause filled her with a sense of hope and determination. It was a feeling she would carry with her throughout the remainder of her life.

“The Walk to Freedom was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had,” Catherine said. “Being a part of something so big, so important, made me realize that we could truly change the world.”

Davis role in the civil rights movement didn’t stop with that march. She continued to work for racial equality, volunteering with organizations that supported Black rights and education, and often participated in community outreach programs designed to empower Black families. Her activism was rooted not just in marching and protests, but also in creating lasting, tangible change in her community.

Davis’s resilience didn’t falter as she entered her 90s. In her mid-90s, she faced yet another challenge, breast cancer. Diagnosed at the age of 94, Davis fought with the same strength and determination that had defined her entire life. Despite her age, she underwent treatment and emerged victorious over cancer, refusing to let her battle define her. Her triumph over cancer serves as a testament to her indomitable will and her refusal to give up, no matter the odds.

While Davis’s life has been full of extraordinary moments, her recent dream was brought to fruition thanks to Wish of a Lifetime from AARP. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to granting the wishes of older adults, providing them with the opportunity to experience something meaningful or fulfilling.

Nearly 27 percent of American seniors live alone, a trend highlighted by a 2023 Pew Research Center study, emphasizing the increasing isolation among older adults. In a heartwarming display of community support, Davis, along with her granddaughter Deana and great-granddaughter Mia, received a special trip Washignton DC to tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture  thanks to the generosity of Wish of a Lifetime. The experience was deeply emotional for Davis who marveled at the rich history and culture surrounding her, all while being honored as a living testament to the past she has both witnessed and shaped.

Catherine Davis and her family, courtesy of AARP, Wish of a Lifetime

Reflecting on the experience, Davis said, “You made this 102-year-old lady happy. The red carpet was rolled out for me, and I am so grateful!”

The visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture allowed Davis to connect with her past, her heritage, and her legacy in a deeply personal way. As she walked through the exhibits, she was reminded of the struggles her ancestors endured and the progress that has been made. She felt proud to be part of a generation that had fought so hard for justice and equality.

‘What stood out for me was President Obama  and then to see that young man that was beat to death in Mississippi. It was just great, some of the good things and some of the bad things,” Davis said.

“It wasn’t a sad moment. We had a great week. We stayed three, three nights in four days.”

While Davis journey is inspiring, it also highlights an important issue facing many seniors today: social isolation. Black seniors, in particular, face disproportionate rates of isolation and loneliness, which can have detrimental effects on their physical and mental health. Studies show that Black adults over 65 are nearly twice as likely to report having no close friends compared to their peers. This social isolation is especially concerning as it can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and a lack of community connection.

Natasha Hartsfield, who serves as the Field Manager at Wish of a Lifetime, passionately highlighted the essential need for personal interaction among individuals. She noted that meaningful connections and face-to-face engagement are crucial.

“The reality is, it’s not healthy to be alone,” Hartsfield said.

“We’re a social species, and we know that one in three older adults is in isolation, and what we do at wish of a lifetime is really create connection.”

Organizations like Wish of a Lifetime work to address these issues by providing older adults with experiences that not only fulfill lifelong dreams but also combat loneliness. Catherine’s visit to Washington, D.C., is a perfect example of how social engagement and meaningful experiences can make a significant difference in the lives of older adults.

“One thing I love about Ms. Catherine story is it really highlights a lot of what we do at Wish of a Lifetime, like sharing the legacy of older adults in America while also creating these inspirational connections. On her wish list was, she went on this wish with her granddaughter and her great granddaughter, and that’s going to live on for a long, long time.”