As Jimmy Carter celebrates his 100th birthday, it’s incredible to think how his health has remained stable since entering hospice almost two years ago. In an interview with 11Alive, his grandson, Jason Carter, expressed amazement at his grandfather’s longevity and the special moments they have had together.

Even at 100 years old, Jimmy Carter is still mentally engaged with the world around him, as Jason Carter shared in an interview with Boston public radio. Although physically diminished, Jimmy Carter’s mental acuity remains sharp. He has been following politics, showing a keen interest in current events, including the war in Gaza.

The loss of his beloved wife, Rosalynn Carter, earlier this year has understandably been challenging for Jimmy Carter. To adjust to life without her has taken time, and his family acknowledges that there are aspects of his emotional journey that are difficult to comprehend. However, his spirit remains strong, and he continues to find peace and solace despite the void left by her absence.

Jimmy Carter’s family, including his four children, Amy, Jack, Chip, and Jeff, have been a constant presence during this time. They ensure that someone is always there for support and companionship. Caregivers and close family members are welcome visitors, providing love and care as he navigates this final chapter of his life.

Over the years, Jimmy Carter has faced numerous health challenges with incredible resilience. In 2015, he was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma, a form of skin cancer that had spread to his liver and brain. Despite the initial grim prognosis, he received treatment, including surgery and radiation, and achieved remission. The fact that his previous generation was affected by cancer added an additional layer of complexity to his journey.

In 2019, he endured several falls resulting in injuries and surgeries. Despite these setbacks, Jimmy Carter’s determination remained unwavering. His commitment to attending a Habitat for Humanity event in Nashville, even after sustaining a forehead injury requiring stitches, showcased his unwavering spirit.

In October 2022, as he approached his 98th birthday, Jason Carter mentioned that his grandfather continued to be mentally sharp and fully engaged in life. While everyday activities had become more challenging, Jimmy Carter’s strong faith and acceptance of God’s plan provided him with peace and contentment.

In February 2023, Jimmy Carter made the decision to enter hospice care at home. This choice was made after a series of hospital stays and marked a significant transition in his health journey. The Carter family, along with his medical team, fully supported this decision. They requested privacy during this time to create lasting memories with their patriarch.

Just a few months later, in November 2023, the nation watched as Jimmy Carter left hospice care to honor the life of his beloved wife, Rosalynn, at her funeral. Despite concerns about his ability to travel, he made the journey in a touching display of love and remembrance.

And now, in October 2024, we celebrate Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday. As the first U.S. president to reach this milestone, his remarkable journey is a testament to his purposeful life, strong family bonds, and unyielding faith. Experts often cite these factors as key contributors to his long and fulfilling life.

As we commemorate this historic occasion, let us remember the extraordinary life of Jimmy Carter, a man who has dedicated his life to service, diplomacy, and peace.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com