Written by: Sam Orlando
From Surviving Global Pandemics to Outliving Generations, Maria’s Journey is a Testament to Longevity and Resilience
STAUNTON, VIRGINIA - In an extraordinary testament to human longevity, Maria Branyas Morera, the world's oldest living person, has reached the remarkable age of 117. Born on March 4, 1907, in San Francisco, Maria has witnessed the changing tides of history, from global conflicts to technological revolutions, all while maintaining a spirit of resilience and grace.
From the USA to Spain
Maria's life journey brought her from the United States to Catalonia, Spain, at the tender age of eight, where she has since resided. For the past 23 years, she has lived in the same nursing home, a testament to her enduring spirit and the care she receives. Her longevity has earned her the title of the world's oldest living person, a mantle she took on following the death of French nun Lucile Randon at 118.
Maria Loves to Engage Her X (Formerly Twitter) Fans
Despite her advanced age, Maria remains engaged with the world through social media, sharing her thoughts and reflections with the help of others. On her 117th birthday, she greeted the world with a message that reflected her journey: "Good morning, world. Today I turn 117 years old. I've come this far."
No Significant Health Issues at 117!
Maria's health is a marvel in itself. According to the nursing home staff, she experiences no significant health issues beyond the expected challenges of hearing and mobility. Her mental acuity and memory are exceptionally sharp, recalling events from her early childhood with clarity. This remarkable state of health has piqued the interest of the scientific community, leading to studies aimed at uncovering the genetic secrets behind her longevity.
Her life has spanned the most significant events of the 20th and 21st centuries, including the 1918 pandemic, two World Wars, and Spain's civil war. Maria married Joan Moret, a Catalan doctor, in 1931 and together they had three children. Tragically, she outlived her only son, August, who died in a tractor accident at 86.
Maria's contributions to science extend beyond her living legacy; she has agreed to undergo scientific testing to help researchers understand the genetics of aging. This research could pave the way for advancements in treating age-related diseases, offering hope for future generations to lead longer, healthier lives.
Maria Beat Covid at the Age of 113!
Her musical talent and recovery from COVID-19 at the age of 113 further illustrate her remarkable resilience. Maria not only survived the virus but also became known as the world's oldest COVID survivor, a title that underscores her extraordinary life journey.
As Maria now stands as the 12th oldest verified person in history, the world watches with admiration and wonder. Her life is a living history lesson, a reminder of the past century's trials and triumphs, and a beacon of hope for what lies ahead. Maria Branyas Morera's story is not just about the years in her life but the life in her years, inspiring all who hear it to cherish every moment and embrace the possibilities of tomorrow.
The Top of an Exclusive List
Maria Branyas Morera's remarkable age places her among an exclusive group of supercentenarians who defy the boundaries of human longevity. Notably, Edie Ceccarelli, born in California on February 5, 1908, currently stands at 116 years old, embodying the legacy of Italian immigrants in the United States. Across the Pacific in Osaka, Japan, Tomika Itooka, born on May 23, 1908, represents the oldest validated living person in Japan at 115. In Latin America, Inah Canabarro Lucas, who embraced a life of devotion in the 1920s, is the oldest living nun and person in the region at 115 years old. Juan Vicente Pérez Mora, celebrating his life since May 27, 1909, holds the title of the oldest validated living man worldwide at 114 years old.
Oldest Living American is 114
In the United States, Texas boasts Elizabeth Francis, born on July 25, 1909, as its oldest known resident at 114 years old, a living bridge to the state's rich history. The United Kingdom's Ethel Caterham, who has called Surrey home for over fifty years, was born on August 21, 1909, and is currently 114. Japan's Okagi Hayashi, a testament to family legacy with a lineage spanning great-great-grandchildren, was born on September 2, 1909. Pearl Berg, representing California's aged wisdom since October 1, 1909, stands as a beacon of resilience in the Jewish community at 114 years old. Lastly, Tane Matsubara, from Hokkaido Prefecture, born on October 15, joins this distinguished list of centenarians, marking the incredible resilience and diversity of life experiences among the world's oldest people.
These individuals not only embody remarkable personal stories but also represent the broader narrative of human resilience, cultural heritage, and the ongoing study of longevity. As Maria Branyas Morera continues to inspire from her home in Catalonia, she, along with her fellow supercentenarians, holds a place of honor in the annals of human history, offering insights into the secrets of a long, vibrant life.
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