Friday, the community and staff came together to welcome home a loved one who’s been in the hospital for months fighting the coronavirus and other health issues. Friends and family say it was a miraculous recovery which warranted a special celebration.


What You Need To Know

  • Susie Tharrett was in the hospital for 11-weeks fighting a spinal infection, the coronavirus, and pneumonia.
  • Susie and Richard Tharrett run Papa Rick's Snack Shack in Rome.
  • Friday the community celebrated her homecoming with a parade.
  • Susie plans to stay at home for a while before heading back to the ice cream and food shop.

Hospital staff and family cheered as Susie Tharrett left the hospital Friday morning.

“I love all you guys and I’ll never forget it. If it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t be here right now,” said Susie.

She thanked those who have been at her side for weeks. Susie went in for a spinal infection only to contract the coronavirus and pneumonia during her stay. Family members say it was tough battle.

“She turned the corner really fast,” said Susie’s daughter, Kelly Anderson. “We had some really scary moments where we were unsure what was gonna happen.”

Susie was escorted by police, fire departments and ambulances as her husband drove her to the seasonal ice cream and food shop they run. Papa Rick’s Snack Shack.

“This is so wonderful,” said Susie’s husband, Richard Tharrett. “This has been so long, she’s been hospitalized for nine weeks, and with this COVID situation I couldn’t even go up and see her. So, she was up there all alone the whole time.”

To keep safe, Susie stayed in her car while people brought her flowers, signs, and gifts. 

“It was amazing. The tears were flowing, happy tears of course. To see her surrounded by all her friends and family, the community that loves her, and staff, it was awesome,” said Anderson.

At 57 years old, Susie beat the odds. She says it was love and support that helped her do it.

“I’m just thrilled to see everybody and I just want to thank everyone for all their support, all their prayers. I’m sure it helped me get better,” said Susie.

But others say it’s because Susie is Strong

“It has been a long one but, the outcome was good and I am just glad to her back home again,” said Susie.