Family Celebrates Woman's 109th Birthday Gathering Through Window

Apr 23, 2020 by apost team

Life has altered everything as we know it amid the coronavirus pandemic, and birthdays are one normal part of life that have had to change in these last weeks. This has especially been the case for the elderly, who are at greater risk of severe complications due to COVID-19, while limited contact with others is an important part of curbing the spread of the virus.

But that didn't stop Bessie Hexdall, who turned a remarkable 109-years-old, in celebrating her special day. Nurses at The Gardens at Park Pointe, Illinois, the assisted living facility where Bessie lives, organised a small party, where family joined in from the window outside.

Sitting in her armchair like a queen, Bessie Hexdall was surrounded by decorations, presents, and a birthday cake, as she celebrated the incredible milestone of 109 years of age. And while her family weren't able to join her directly, they did participate just outside her window, ensuring that even this birthday didn't go unnoticed.

Born on April 19, 1911 in Missouri, Bessie has lived through a lot, but surely this birthday must jump out as a unique one. When staff at the assisted living facility where Bessie resides began preparing for her big day, they knew they had to make it special. 

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Beginning weeks in advance, the staff asked their community to send birthday cards so that Bessie could receive exactly 109 on her big day. Well they received that, plus some –– 650 to be exact, with more on the way! It's heartwarming that so many people have joined in to help make someone's birthday that much nicer even amid these times.

Bessie's family spoke with news cameras as they celebrated outside, telling WGN News that Bessie is "full of life." Her grandson, Tom Noon, spoke to the cameras and described how the family felt like they couldn't be a part of her big day because of the social distancing restrictions, but thanks to the incredible staff they were able to.

Meanwhile inside, staff catered to Bessie's every whim, organising a birthday cake, roses, and even a tiara that said "Princess." Between the attention and hospitality of the incredible staff at The Gardens and Bessie's family joining in through the window from outside, Bessie's birthday bash definitely didn't feel lacking.

A keen traveller, Bessie has been to all but three states in her lifetime and has lived a good life. When asked how she was feeling on her big day, Bessie replied to the news cameras "Wonderful to be alive." 

With the shutdown of regular life as we know it, the difficult period during the coronavirus pandemic has brought about so much community spirit from people the world over. It's incredible to see not only family but friends and staff pitch in to make someone's day special, despite our current restrictions.

What did you think of Bessie's sweet inside-outside birthday party? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to pass this on to your loved ones!