27 March 2025
At age 91, our wonderful resident, Fay, has achieved something truly special—her very first children’s book has been published: The Mouse and Friends Who Nibbled Their Way Through Gingerbread Houses.
Fay has always been a storyteller, filling Regis Kirwan with poems, short stories and musings that bring joy to fellow residents, team members and visitors alike. This latest story, The Mouse and Friends Who Nibbled Their Way Through Gingerbread Houses, started as a simple idea during a Christmas reminiscence activity.
One Friday morning, a group of ladies at Regis Kirwan gathered to assemble gingerbread house kits. As the summer heat took its toll and the houses began to collapse, Fay joked that it looked like something had been nibbling on them. She initially thought of writing about cockroaches but decided on mice instead. Inspired by her fairytale-like garden and with creative input from her fellow Residents Kathleen Withers, Fleur Cantoni and Robyn, Fay brought the story of Marty the Mouse and his friends to life.
Fay has loved writing since childhood, often letting her mind wander into stories and poems. Though she left school at 14 or 15, her passion for storytelling never faded. She often shares her writings with the Lifestyle team, who assist in typing them up. This time, when she mentioned her latest story to Lian Schmidt—who happens to be a graphic designer and the daughter of a fellow Resident—Lian saw its potential and offered to create something truly special. Fay had imagined a simple booklet, but Lian assured her, “Leave it with me.” What resulted was a beautifully illustrated children’s book, filled with colour and charm.
The book’s heartwarming reception led to additional copies being printed, ensuring that Fay’s great-grandchildren and loved ones could each have their own. Thanks to Erin from XRX Print Centre and Lian’s creative talents, a digital version was also made available for those who didn’t receive a physical copy.
For Fay, the most enjoyable part of the writing process was imagining characters that little ones would love—especially Marty the Mouse and the big black cat. More than anything, she finds joy in knowing that her great-grandchildren will read and cherish a story written by their Great Grandma.
Her advice to others, especially older adults with creative dreams? “Follow your dreams—you can do it if you want it.”
Regis Kirwan is immensely proud of Fay, Lian, and all who played a part in bringing this delightful book to life. It’s a demonstration of the power of creativity, collaboration and the magic of storytelling at any stage of life. Congratulations, Fay!
