At 42 years outside of the White House, Jimmy Carter‘s retirement is the longest in American history and his upcoming 99th birthday will continue his trend of setting new historic records. Carter’s birthday is on October 1 and although his health has kept him mostly at home, all of America is welcome to celebrate with him by signing a virtual card for the former president.
Back in February, Carter entered hospice care, following a series of injuries and illnesses. Family members have revealed that he and his wife of 77 years Rosalynn are near the end of their lives. But, through The Carter Center, fellow Americans can help connect on this special day. Here’s how.
Loved ones discuss the likelihood of reaching this milestone occasion
On Thursday, Carter’s grandson Jason shared an update on the former president’s health ahead of his 99th birthday. “Number one, he’s been in hospice now for over six months and so we didn’t know and we didn’t believe at the time that we were going to get to this 99th birthday but they’re doing remarkably well,” said Jason, adding, “they are coming to the end of course.”
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“But they’re at peace, they are together, they’re at home, they’re in love and you don’t get much more than that.”
2019 had been a time of great difficulty for Carter, who broke his hip in mid-May, underwent surgery, injured his forehead and required 14 stitches, and suffered a black eye. In February of this year, Carter decided to forgo additional medical care and pursue hospice, following a “series of short hospital stays.” Despite this turn of events, there is a way to connect with him virtually.
The Carter Center shares how to sign a virtual card for Jimmy Carter’s 99th birthday
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On September 14, The Carter Center shared on social media plans to celebrate Carter’s 99th birthday. “Join us in wishing him a happy 99th by sharing your own birthday wishes at the link in bio or on Instagram with the hashtag #JimmyCarter99,” an Instagram announcement reads.
The link on the Center’s main Instagram page goes to a collection of other links and pages; the one relevant to Carter’s birthday is to the page titled “Celebrate Jimmy Carter’s 99th Birthday on Oct. 1.” Viewers see a mosaic of virtual cards. “It’s simple! Click the SEND A MESSAGE button below to share your birthday greetings, memories, and messages of love with the former president,” the page instructs.
Will you be sending one?
