A 116-year-old French nun who is believed to be the world’s second-oldest person has survived Covid-19 and is looking forward to celebrating her 117th birthday on Thursday.
The Gerontology Research Group, which validates details of people thought to be 110 or older, lists Frenchwoman Lucile Randon — Sister André’s birth name – as the second-oldest known living person in the world.
French media report that Sister André tested positive for the virus in mid-January in the southern French city of Toulon. But just three weeks later, the nun is considered recovered.
“I didn’t even realize I had it,” she told French newspaper Var-Matin.
Sister André, who is blind and uses a wheelchair, did not even worry when she received her diagnosis.
“She didn’t ask me about her health, but about her habits,” David Tavella, the communications manager for the care home where the nun, told the newspaper. “For example, she wanted to know if meal or bedtime schedules would change. She showed no fear of the disease. On the other hand, she was very concerned about the other residents.”
Not all of the home’s residents shared Sister André’s luck. In January, 81 of the 88 residents tested positive for the virus, and about 10 of them died, according to Var-Matin.
Once doctors declared the nun no longer infected, she was allowed to attend Mass.
Latest Stories
-
Our business policies will foster growth of private sector – President Mahama
25 minutes -
Opoku-Agyeman’s ascension not merely a political triumph, it signals our commitment to gender equality – Mahama
25 minutes -
I’ll have humility to take responsibility for challenges and resolve them – Mahama
36 minutes -
This is an opportunity for new governance – President Mahama
56 minutes -
I’ve got no doubt your administration will bring about positive change – Tinubu to Mahama
56 minutes -
I am here to walk with you; don’t hesitate to reach out – Bola Tinubu to Mahama
1 hour -
Bola Tinubu urges Africans to resolve disagreements through dialogue, not conflict
1 hour -
You have been a worthy opponent – Mahama tells Akufo-Addo
1 hour -
‘Today marks a new beginning, we shall reset Ghana’ – Mahama to Ghanaians
1 hour -
Mahama vows to focus on public health to mitigate future pandemic risks
2 hours -
Your voices will matter – Mahama to Ghanaians
2 hours -
Alan Kyerematen advocates establishment of 2bn dollar market infrastructure development fund
2 hours -
Bond market: Turnover drops 20.58% to GH¢522m
2 hours -
Consistent debt repayment to improve Ghana’s rating status; default extremely low
2 hours -
Your early concession eased tensions in the country – Mahama applauds Bawumia
2 hours