Anthea Turner
How I See It...
Hello,
With International
Women’s Day this month, I’ve always valued my female relationships. I was lucky to enjoy a strong healthy bond with my mother who had a collection of fabulous female friends who were all part of my life. Back in the 60s it was inappropriate to refer to an adult by their first name, so they were all “Aunty” out of respect. In the early days of our relationship, Mark thought we were a huge family, when in fact my mum was an only child. Looking back, the “aunties” had a great influence on my approach to friendships.
I sent a birthday card to one of my oldest pals which said, “Who needs a therapist when I have you?” Our female ability to talk, share and openly cry with our friends is a superpower, and it’s warming to witness men finally realising its emotional benefits.
I attended an all girls grammar school. Single sex education is attacked for not preparing girls for real life but my experience was the complete opposite. At a girls school there were no gender roles. If we put on a concert it wasn’t the strong boys that shifted scenery it was us. We lugged trestles out for the summer bring and buy, and no sport could intimidate us. The people I now feel sorry for were the hapless young male teachers – two of whom we could have scarred for life with our teenage antics!
Special Woman
It was my honour to highlight the achievements of a woman I admire and have known for many years. Last week I was with Dorothy Purdew OBE celebrating her 91st birthday in a room crammed with warmth, fun, friendship, respect and so much love. The room was in Champney’s Henlow Grange, Dorothy’s second resort and the one that changed the face of health farms forever. She began at 38 with a slimming club of just 5 members and a vision that health, fitness and luxury should not be just for the rich and famous but accessible and affordable to all. She never took no for an answer when she believed she was right – and generally, Dorothy is right!
In times of strife the WWDD (What Would Dorothy Do) factor has served me well. So, thank you Dorothy, the Aunties and Mum for showing me the way. I hope over the years I pass their wisdom on to my younger female friends and family.
Love, Anthea X