The New York Times: Jimmy Carter’s Prolonged Farewell
TL/DR –
Former US President Jimmy Carter, a survivor of cancer and the oldest-living president, has been under hospice care for over a year, defying the odds as a mere 6% of individuals last this long in such care. Despite having decided to decline further life-extending medical treatment, Mr. Carter remains alert and involved, still expressing his thoughts and interests. His choice to utilize hospice care and his resilience has sparked national conversations about the benefits and possibilities of end-of-life care.
Jimmy Carter’s Remarkable Endurance Defies Expectations
Jimmy Carter, the underdog president who forged a significant treaty in the Middle East, won a Nobel Peace Prize, and overcame cancer, again confounds expectations. Elected president against the odds, he continues to defy the limits during his final days in hospice care.
One year after entering hospice care, Carter’s longevity in his Plains, Ga., home surprises many. The former president’s enduring resilience has commemorated his life throughout the world, as he refuses to adhere to any predetermined timeline.
Defying the Odds in Hospice Care
Carter, the only president to reach 99 years, outlasted the typical hospice care period. Only 6% of individuals in hospice care outlive a year, further highlighting his resilience.
“He’s been a record-breaker for decades—the oldest-living president, the longest-married president,” says longtime friend Jill Stuckey. “It’s always been on President Carter’s terms. That’s how he’s living, and that’s how he’s going to die.”
Recognizing Carter’s Tenacity
Jonathan Alter, author of “His Very Best,” reflects on Carter’s enduring spirit. Carter was always ambitious, even in his readiness to accept his fate.
Despite appearing frail at his wife’s funeral, Carter remains determined. His nephew, Jason Carter, asserts, “he just believes that for whatever reason, God’s not done with him yet.”
While his physical condition has declined, Carter’s mental clarity remains. He is still cognizant enough to express his wishes and appreciate information.
Endurance on His Own Terms
Carter continues to maintain a keen interest in his philanthropic endeavors, including fighting the Guinea worm disease, an affliction he has been combating since 1986.
His decision last February to decline life-extending medical treatment in favor of relief-focused hospice care has increased awareness of hospice care’s benefits.
“The way that he and his family have approached this is making this a national conversation,” says Ben Marcantonio of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.
As Carter continues his journey on his own terms, he leaves behind a legacy of strength, service, and resilience that will always be remembered in U.S. history.
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