Bronx resident Betty Brown reached a milestone few people ever get to experience, as she and the staff at the Bronx Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing Center celebrated her 104th birthday.  

Brown was born in 1919, the same year that women were given the right to vote, one year after the end of World War 1, and everyday attire consisted of formal suits, long dresses and top hats.  

Brown says that she mostly remembers her love of dance, reflecting on her times dancing in Harlem during the ‘30s, 40s, and 50s. She worked as a child care provider and was independent for most of her life.  

As the nursing home’s oldest resident after moving into Bronx Gardens in 2017, Brown is just focusing on living in the moment.  

“I don’t have too many friends now because I lost so many… so I’m happy to be here,” said Brown.  

The staff at Bronx Gardens says they’re happy that Betty is a part of their nursing home family, and despite her old age, they say she keeps them laughing with her youthful energy.