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Frances Gillett was born in 1941 with Down’s Syndrome. At the time, individuals with Down’s syndrome were only expected to live to their mid-20s.
Miraculously, Gillett lived far past her 20s and is now celebrating her 75th birthday – despite a host of other odds that also stood in her way.
When Gillett was younger, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought a long battle against the disease and finally defeated it 12 years ago.
Gillett’s struggles didn’t end there. About two years after she conquered her breast cancer, she contracted tuberculosis, a serious bacterial infection in the lungs that can be fatal.
For six months, Gillett struggled to combat the infection – and also overcame it.
Wayne Bent, one of the part-time owners of the care home where Gillett now lives, called Gillett “really and truly amazing.” Over the past 20 years of Gillett’s residency there, “she has become more than a resident, she is like family.”
Bent, too, is celebrating Gillett’s 75th birthday with immense joy. “Years ago there was zero expectancy for someone with Down’s syndrome to live such a long life, so for her to celebrate her 75th birthday is wonderful,” he said.
Gillett’s 75th birthday celebration not only marked a momentous occasion for her, but it also allowed her to take the title of “oldest living woman with Down’s Syndrome” from previous titleholder, Dollie Grissom, age 74.
The Down’s Syndrome Association has also wished Gillett the best on her special day: “Everyone at the Down’s Syndrome Association wishes Frances a happy birthday.”
