WWII Vet Survives Coronavirus to Celebrate 104th Birthday

A World War II veteran from Oregon emerged victorious from his battle against the coronavirus to celebrate his 104^th birthday.

William “Bill” Lapschies, according to Fox News, is one of residents to have tested positive for the coronavirus at the Edward C. Allworth Veterans’ Home. Of the 15 residents, 2 have passed away, according to data from the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Lapschies had been in isolation since he tested positive, being cared for by staff who wore complete protective equipment—from the face to the hands. Only this week, he has been announced virtually free from coronavirus, according to the rules and guidelines set by the CDC and Oregon Health Authority. It also happened to be his birthday.

When asked about beating the coronavirus and turning 104, he said that he felt pretty good that he had made it. After a pause, Lapschies added, “good for a few more.”

Lapschies celebrated his birthday with a "social distancing party," organized by his family, including his daughter, Carolee Brown. When asked about what she felt about her father’s recovery, she said she was thrilled he recovered from the virus, and at 104. The virus had been fatal for people the age of Leschies and below.

The Salem State Penitentiary recorded their first case of COVID-19 on Wednesday. According to Oregon Live, the person is the first to have been infected in the prison system, the Oregon Department of Corrections announced Wednesday. Corrections spokeswoman Jennifer Black said that they received news of the positive test early in the day.

State Corrections Director Colette Peters and Deputy Director Heidi Steward sent a message to more than 4,500 employees at the event of the discovery. They revealed that preparations have been made over the course of several weeks and that their thoughts still go out to the embattled employee.