Great-grandmother named prom queen at age 97 — decades after missing her own dance because of the Great Depression

Helen Danis attended her first prom at 97 years old and was made honoray prom queen. (Photo: CNN)
Helen Danis attended her first prom at 97 years old and was made honorary prom queen. (Photo: CNN)

At 97, Helen Danis has been checking off her bucket list with the help of her granddaughter, Julie Huddon.

Danis has recently been doing a lot of things for the first time in her nearly century-long life. For example, just in December, she sat on Santa's lap for the first time.

Danis was unable to experience one opportunity that most teenagers are able to celebrate. She could not attend her high school prom 80 years ago due to her financial situation.

"I couldn't keep up with the kids," Danis told WJAR. "I didn't really fit in. We were in the middle of a depression and money was scarce."

Huddon was able to secure permission from Pilgrim High School in Warwick, R.I. for Danis to attend the senior prom with her great-grandson as her date.

"She didn't stop smiling the whole night!" Huddon told USA Today. "It was so special to share this memory with her, not only for me but my son as well, her great-grandson!"

Danis even received a heartfelt promposal before the big night, which included a crown and a note asking her to attend prom.

On prom night, Danis was even named honorary prom queen. She danced the night away to the "Hully Gully," the "Cupid Shuffle" and the "Cha-Cha Slide."

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