‘Have A Sense Of Humor’: Commack Woman Celebrates 100th Birthday

COMMACK, NY — Family members, friends, residents and staff gathered Tuesday at Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center to celebrate resident Doris Gessner's 100th birthday.

A lifelong New Yorker originally from Harlem, Gessner worked as a school secretary before retiring. She remains active at Gurwin through reading, puzzles, trivia, cognitive games and discussion groups, according to the center.

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She is also a member of Gurwin's Glee Club and has served for two years as president of the center's Resident Council, advocating for fellow residents and helping organize campus activities.

"Doris is an extraordinary woman whose warmth, intelligence and positive spirit inspire everyone around her," Gurwin Healthcare System President and CEO Stuart Almer said. "She is a respected leader among her fellow residents and an important part of the Gurwin family."

Gessner is supported by a devoted family that includes her three children, Gurwin officials said.

Asked for her secret to reaching 100, Gessner offered a simple answer.

"Have a sense of humor," she said.

During the birthday celebration, Gessner raised the gavel she uses to preside over Resident Council meetings as those gathered sang "Happy Birthday." She then made a wish and blew out her candles to applause.

"She is witty, whip-smart and endlessly involved in life here," said Kathleen Biggs, assistant director of therapeutic recreation and volunteers at Gurwin. "Doris doesn't just live at Gurwin — she leads."

Biggs said Gessner's advocacy has made a difference for other residents.

"Turning 100 hasn't slowed her down one bit," she said.