At 117, world’s oldest person is still collecting firsts

At 117 years old, Ethel Caterham continues to make history as the world's oldest living person. Born on August 21, 1909, Caterham has already witnessed multiple historical events, from the sinking of the Titanic to the rise of the internet. Despite living through two world wars, the Russian Revolution, and the moon landing, Caterham remains optimistic about the future.

In a recent birthday celebration, Caterham expressed gratitude for the well-wishes from family and friends and shared that she had experienced numerous firsts this year, including stroking a llama and holding hands with King Charles III. Her cheerful outlook on life is a testament to her remarkable independence, as she continued to drive until she was 97 and enjoyed games of contract bridge well beyond her 100th birthday.

Caterham's journey began in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, where she was born three years before the Titanic sank and five years before World War I started. She lived through various significant moments, including the Russian Revolution, the moon landing, and the rise of the internet era. It is believed that she is also the last surviving subject of King Edward VII.

After her husband Norman, a lieutenant colonel in the British Army, passed away in 1976, Caterham traveled to India at age 18 and later lived in Gibraltar and Hong Kong, where she established a nursery school. She is one of eight children and had two daughters who both passed away before her. Ethel Caterham's remarkable life and resilience serve as an inspiration to all.