Newnan native overcomes coronavirus infection to celebrate milestone birthday at Peachtree City long-term care facility —
Born and raised in the area, Fannie Dix has been a lifetime member of the Newnan community. A true pillar of the community, Fannie raised her own family here and spent much of her time volunteering. She served as President of the school PTA, Den Mother for a local Scout troop, President of the Usher Board of her church and as a mentor at the local youth center.
After raising their children in Newnan, Fannie sadly lost her husband, a World War II veteran, to cancer. In 2019, the still spry 103-year-old decided to make the move to local long-term care center, Southland Health & Rehabilitation, on Wisdom Road in Peachtree City. During her time at Southland, Fannie has made a lasting impact on the staff as well as her fellow patients.
“Mrs. Dix has a nurturing personality. The way she rubs your hands and face makes you feel warm and safe the way you do with your own mother. She is such a strong woman and we could tell she cared for people her entire life. We feel so honored to take care of her, she brings joy to our lives,” says one Southland staff member.
In March of 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic began making its way across the nation, infiltrating the Newnan community and surrounding areas. When Mrs. Dix began exhibiting respiratory symptoms in late March, she was immediately tested for the virus.
The results of the test indicated that Mrs. Dix was, in fact, among the over 35,000 individuals in the state of Georgia to become infected by Covid-19.
Fortunately, through early detection, quick intervention and a fighter’s spirit, Mrs. Dix was able to defeat Covid-19 and make a full recovery from the virus.
Just weeks after kicking Covid-19, Fannie Dix celebrated her 104th birthday at Southland Health & Rehabilitation. During these unprecedented times of uncertainty and even fear, the 104 years young Mrs. Dix continues to inspire those around her. She reminds us that through strength, faith and service to others, we can overcome anything.
“Covid-19 has had a significant impact in our area. We serve a vulnerable population and our center has been working around the clock to help protect the health and safety of our patients and our staff. We would like to commend the dedicated health care workers who, through thoughtful care and clinical expertise, will help us reach the other side of this pandemic,” says Patrelle Major, Administrator of Southland Health & Rehabilitation.
