On February 18th, The Carter Center announced that former President Jimmy Carter, at the age of 98, had entered hospice care after multiple hospitalizations. Mr. Carter, who has chosen to forego further medical treatments, will spend his final days surrounded by family in a comfortable setting. His family has requested privacy during this time and is grateful for the support from his admirers and fans.
A Life of Service and Achievement
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981, was known for his advocacy of progressive causes such as energy conservation and human rights. After leaving office, he founded The Carter Center in 1982, which has been instrumental in numerous humanitarian efforts worldwide.
In 2002, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his work, including his co-founding role in establishing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). His contributions to disease prevention, election monitoring, and peace negotiations were pivotal.
Diplomatic Efforts and Humanitarian Work
Carter’s diplomatic efforts included a notable mission to North Korea in 1994, where he worked on reducing tensions between the two countries on behalf of former President Bill Clinton. Later, he joined The Elders, a group of eminent global leaders dedicated to promoting peace and human rights.
Health Struggles and Legacy
In 2015, Jimmy Carter was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma that had spread to his brain and liver. Despite the grim prognosis, he underwent radiation and immunotherapy, which eventually led to a negative cancer test result. Carter’s resilience and continued engagement in public life were remarkable, as he authored over 30 books in the past 40 years and maintained an active presence.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Carter continued to teach Sunday school in Plains, Georgia, and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity alongside his wife, Rosalynn Carter. Together, they have three sons—Jack, James III, and Donnel—and one daughter, Amy. The Carters are also proud grandparents and great-grandparents to 13 grandchildren.
In 2019, Carter faced health setbacks, including a series of falls that led to surgery to relieve pressure on his head. Despite these challenges, his contributions to public service and his enduring legacy have left a lasting impact.
