[3][4] She trained as an athlete at the Hiram G. Andrews Rehabilitation Center in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

At the 1968 Paralympics, held in Tel Aviv, she won medals in shot put, javelin, and women's pairs lawn bowls events.

At the 1972 Paralympics, held in Heidelberg, she won medals pentathlon, javelin, and discus throw events.

[9] And at the 1976 Paralympics, held in Toronto, she won medals in table tennis and javelin events.

[16][17][18] She held several world records in javelin and shot put,[19] and was a member of the Central Penn Wheelers.

[23] Away from sports, Hixson earned a living as a secretary, a therapy aide at a children's hospital,[20][24] a small businesswoman, and a child care provider.