In the space of one busy week, Murray Gardens Retirement Village resident Abraham Mamootil has celebrated two incredible milestones: his 91st birthday and the publication of his first novel.
After more than three years of researching and writing, the opportunity to hold Volunteer Mouse in his hands was the best birthday present that Abraham could have hoped for.
“It’s a very good feeling,” he said.
“My wife read it and thought it was very nice, but she doesn’t believe I wrote it!”
Abraham worked as a dentist for 50 years in both India and Australia but has always harboured a desire to become a published author.
“I’ve always dreamed of writing but we had five children, so I had to look after them,” Abraham said.
“I didn’t have any free time until I retired in 1999 and I’ve been writing busily ever since!”
Abraham has lived at Murray Gardens Retirement Village with wife Molly since 2008 and has received a great deal of support from the village community.
Village Manager Anne Jack said that it’s wonderful to finally see what Abraham has been working on for all these years!
“The entire Murray Gardens community is incredibly proud of his accomplishment.”
According to Abraham, the novel is just the beginning of his writing career and he is already working on his next project.
“I’m getting older, but that won’t stop me!” he said.
Abraham is just one of many seniors who are demonstrating that age is no barrier to achieving great things.
“Many of our residents find that retirement provides the time and freedom to pursue new adventures and we’re proud to offer an environment that fosters this process here at Murray Gardens,” said Anne.
