Connaught Court resident celebrates her 104th birthday

A resident at Connaught Court, in Fulford York, has celebrated her 104^th birthday.

Dorothy Dixon, who has lived at the Home for five years, received lots of cards, presents, flowers and chocolates.

Kind-hearted staff at the Home were determined that Dorothy had a day to remember in spite of the pandemic, so they organised a ‘socially distanced sherry party’ at the Home for Dorothy and her fellow residents.

Dorothy’s family were also able to visit her in the Home’s new Covid-secure visitor pod throughout the week.

Dorothy was born and raised in Tunstall, near Catterick on 26 August 1916. As a young woman she trained as a nurse at Harrogate General Hospital and went on to become Ward Sister at a hospital in North Allerton.

Dorothy got married during World War II and had two children. She now has five grandchildren and ten great grandchildren!

Dorothy is known at the Home for her love of horse racing. She says that she doesn’t bet on the horses these days, but that she’s been very lucky in the past, predicting who might win.

So, what’s the secret to Dorothy’s long and happy life? She said: “A banana a day! I’ve eaten one every day for years, they’re so good for you, full of potassium!”

Asked what her advice would be to younger generations, Dorothy said:

Work hard and play hard. It’s important to do both and to make sure you get a balance.

She added:

And look after yourself. It’s vital that we take care of ourselves.

Fran Tagg, Activities Coordinator at Connaught Court, said:

It was an honour to celebrate Dorothy’s 104^th birthday at our Home. She’s a remarkable lady!