NEW DELHI: Former US President Jimmy Carter has completed a year under hospice care. Despite facing various health issues and the loss of his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn in November, Carter has defied expectations and continued to spend his days at home with his family in Plains, Georgia.
The Carter Center, in a statement to the media, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and respect for the family’s privacy during this time.The family also acknowledged that Carter’s decision to enter hospice care has sparked important conversations across the country, reported AFP.
At 99 years old, Carter holds the distinction of being the longest-living president in US history. His marriage to Rosalynn also surpasses that of any other president, lasting 77 years compared to the 73-year marriage of George HW Bush and Barbara Bush. Carter has faced significant health challenges in recent years, including his battle with brain cancer in his 90s. In February 2023, it was announced that he would spend his remaining time in hospice care.
Carter’s grandson Jason Carter said, “”when he first went into hospice… we thought he had a matter of days.” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Jimmy Carter, elected in 1976 following the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal, served a single term as president. His tenure featured accomplishments like the Camp David peace accords but was also marked by controversies, including the Iran hostage crisis.
After leaving office, he dedicated his time to humanitarian work and established the Carter Center, which focuses on promoting human rights and resolving conflicts.