Sometimes we can’t help imagining what it would be like to lose our ability to do something we love, but passions don’t have to come with expiration dates.
Suzelle Poole of Dallas, Texas, is living proof of that. The 79-year-old has been dancing for more than seven decades – far longer than she ever expected. And she has no plans to quit anytime soon!
CBS
The London native dove headfirst into the world of ballet when she was just 7 years old, and her devotion only grew stronger as her talent increased in the following years. In fact, Suzelle was so good she went on to perform professionally all around the world!
Facebook
However, as is the case with most professional ballerinas, Suzelle expected a short-lived career. “When I was about 26, I knew I only had a few years left,” she said. It’s simply the nature of the art form because the movements are so hard on people’s bodies.
CBS
But Suzelle’s body didn’t wear out at 26 – or even 56! She still makes guest appearances with local dance companies, and even injuries don’t hold her back for long. At one point, she broke her arm and was dancing again by following week.
Nowadays her focus is on teaching the next generation of ballerinas at the Royale Ballet Dance Academy, where she and her students regularly perform for senior residents in assisted living facilities.
Facebook
Suzelle has become such an inspiration that CBS News correspondent Steve Hartman and his 5-year-old daughter Meryl recently traveled to Dallas to interview her. Steve’s little girl couldn’t wait to meet – and dance – with the woman she wants to become.
CBS
During the interview, Suzelle assured Meryl she doesn’t find it hard to dance “when you’re old.” She also shared an important nugget of wisdom: “Ballet helps everything,” she said. “If you’re not feeling well, you go to a ballet class, and you feel better after.” Meryl just grinned and nodded knowingly.
CBS
It’s no wonder Suzelle has no plans to hang up her pointe shoes. Why would she give up something that brings her so much joy?
Learn more about the woman who might never stop dancing in the video below, and share to encourage others to do more of what they love.
Share your story & inspire the world.
If you have an uplifting story we would love to hear about it! Share it with us here.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.