The nation’s oldest former president, Jimmy Carter, marks his 97th birthday on Friday.
An aide told The Associated Press that Carter will spend the day quietly at his home in southwest Georgia. No public appearances have been planned.
97 Years In 97 Seconds! Here's to an amazing life and an amazing person! Happy Birthday President Carter! pic.twitter.com/kCNdi0oKpF
— Jimmy Carter Presidential Library (@CarterLibrary) October 1, 2021
Online, The Carter Center collected birthday wishes for the former president and dozens of people shared well-wishes. Many did not mention Carter’s Democratic presidency, which ran from 1977 to 1981. Instead, most focused on his post-presidential life, when Carter began teaching Sunday school and -- through The Carter Center -- worked on addressing issues related to human rights and democracy.
President Carter turns 97 TODAY! 🎂🥳
— The Carter Center (@CarterCenter) October 1, 2021
We've received so many touching messages from friends and supporters from around the world - why not join the fun? Send President Carter a birthday wish at the below link ⬇️https://t.co/8CMmiFsa2X pic.twitter.com/BKjZhqtjqt
“You are a true hero, speaking truth to power, and standing up for human rights everywhere,” one birthday greeting read. “You and your dear wife Rosalyn are the conscience of the nation, demonstrating wholeheartedly serving humanity through your examples.”
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter founded The Carter Center in 1982. The couple celebrated 75 years of marriage in July.
>> Related: ‘Full partnership’: Jimmy, Rosalynn Carter prepare to celebrate 75th wedding anniversary
At their home in Plains, Georgia, the Carters met with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden in April.
“We sat and talked about the old days,” Joe Biden said after the meeting. “We just had a nice time.”
We’re pleased to share this wonderful photo from the @POTUS and @FLOTUS visit to see the Carters in Plains, Ga.!
— The Carter Center (@CarterCenter) May 4, 2021
Thank you President and Mrs. Biden! pic.twitter.com/QcA33iUev4
>> Related: Presidential sit-down: Carter, Biden visit photo released
In 2015, Jimmy Carter disclosed that doctors had discovered four melanoma lesions on his brain. By March 2016, his doctors had determined he no longer needed treatment.
The former president has also had a string of falls, including one in October 2019 that left him with a broken pelvis, according to the AP. Recently, he has used a walker when appearing in public, the AP reported.
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