Carter, now 99 years old, has every reason to be proud. In 1986, the Carter Center launched a program to eradicate Guinea worm disease. At that time, the parasitic disease affected 3.5 million people per year in 21 countries. However, thanks to Carter’s leadership and commitment, last year saw only 14 reported cases worldwide. The Carter Center’s efforts have focused on public education, teaching people in affected countries to filter drinking water and prevent infected individuals from contaminating water sources.
During a conversation with Carter in 2006, I was surprised by his pride in his accomplishments. At the time, he was preparing for a trip to Africa to help in eradicating Guinea worm. Impressed by his dedication at his age, I expressed my admiration to him. He responded with a humble laugh, saying he didn’t mind hearing such compliments.
Carter’s determination to make Guinea worm the second human disease, after smallpox, to be eradicated is truly inspiring. As the oldest living former U.S. President, his dedication to this cause is a testament to the power of leadership and commitment in achieving great things. It is clear that Carter has made a lasting impact on the world through his work with the Carter Center and his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place for all its inhabitants.
