DeReamer, Wheaton Exchange Same Birthday Card for 81 Years

Pat DeReamer and her lifelong friend Mary Wheaton-Kroger have made headlines by exchanging the same birthday card for over 81 years, starting their tradition on April 1, 1944. DeReamer recently celebrated her 95th birthday, receiving the well-worn card from Wheaton, who turns 95 in May. The card, featuring a cartoon dog and a dinosaur, has become a living history of their friendship, with signatures and dates marking each year of exchange. They first met during World War II when DeReamer moved to Indianapolis, feeling out of place until Wheaton befriended her. While they once held the Guinness World Record for the longest greeting card exchange, they are currently applying to reclaim this title. Despite their infrequent meetings now, the two women cherish the tradition that has kept their friendship alive through the decades.