Key Takeaways
– Sister Inah Canabarro is declared the world’s oldest living person at nearly 117 by LongeviQuest.
– Born into a large family in Brazil, Canabarro attributes her longevity to her Catholic faith.
– Despite facing health challenges, she remains active, engaged, and devoted to her football team, Inter.
– Canabarro stands 20th on the list of the oldest documented people to have ever lived.
Sister Inah Canabarro: A Testament to Longevity
In a world where the average life expectancy is around 70 years, living to see your 117th birthday is an extraordinary feat. Sister Inah Canabarro, a soccer-loving nun from Brazil, is making headlines as she has been declared the world’s oldest living person according to records.
From a Fragile Childhood to Remarkable Seniority
Canabarro’s early life was marked by uncertainty due to her thin stature which made many worry about her survival into adulthood. Despite these fears, she has endured, outliving relatives, contemporaries, and even generations that came after her. Her nephew, Cleber Canabarro, has shared how he admires her strength, especially given recent health hurdles.
Maintaining her Spirits through Art and Faith
Even at nearly 117, Sister Inah continues to exhibit her zesty spirit. Last February, she happily entertained her audience by showcasing miniature paintings of wildflowers she crafted in her youth. She also cracked jokes and recited the Hail Mary prayer; reflecting her strong Catholic faith, which she highlights as her key to longevity.
According to Canabarro, “I’m young, pretty, and friendly – all very good, positive qualities that you have too.” She imparts these optimistic and encouraging words to her retirement home visitors in Porto Alegre, a city in southern Brazil.
Preserving Family Connections amid Health Challenges
Despite two recent hospitalizations that weakened her physically, Sister Inah remains high-spirited, thanks to her close-knit family. Supported by her nephew, who visits her each Saturday and sends her voice messages in between visits, she stays motivated. The sound of her nephew’s voice, he reveals, brings her immense joy.
A Rich Past Underscoring A Remarkable Life
Canabarro’s life journey is nothing short of fascinating. Born on May 27, 1908 (although official records reflect a June 8 birth date), she is a direct descendant of a renowned Brazilian general from the 19th century. She began her religious calling as a teen, living in several cities before settling in her native state of Rio Grande do Sul.
Her influence extended to the world of education, where she served as a lifelong teacher. Even a former military dictator, Gen. Joao Figueiredo, was one of her students. The creative spirit within her led to the formation of two school marching bands in cities bordering Uruguay and Brazil.
Celebrated by Pope Francis on her 110th birthday, Canabarro’s enduring life impresses both religious leaders and sports enthusiasts alike. As a die-hard fan of local soccer club Inter, her room is adorned with mementos in the team’s red and white colors. Her enthusiasm for her team is infectious, resonating with everyone who visits.
With the recent passing of Japan’s Tomiko Itooka, Sister Inah Canabarro now bears the title of the oldest living person. She also stands 20th on the list of the oldest documented people to have ever lived. This remarkable nun from Brazil, an ardent football fan, and the world’s oldest person continues to inspire us all with her vibrancy and love for life.