Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, was laid to rest today. He left behind a legacy as a humanitarian and public servant and a cancer survivor who brought hope and awareness to millions. All five living presidents attended the service of the 39th president in Washington D.C., including President-elect Trump, and former presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush. Days before Trump takes office for a second term, the state funeral service marks a rare joint appearance of the former commanders-in-chief.
In August 2015, at the age of 90, Carter announced he had been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma that had spread to his liver and brain. At the time, such a diagnosis often meant only weeks or months to live, especially for someone of Carter’s advanced age
Regardless of one’s political affiliation, Carter’s treatment journey would prove transformative for cancer care. He underwent surgery, radiation, and most significantly, immunotherapy with a newly approved drug called pembrolizumab (Keytruda). This innovative treatment works by harnessing the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells.
Just months after beginning treatment, Carter, a loyal Democrat, announced he was cancer-free, stunning the medical community and offering hope to cancer patients worldwide. His remarkable response to immunotherapy became widely known as “the Carter effect,” ushering in a new era of optimism for patients facing dire prognoses.
Dr. Adam Friedman, chair of dermatology at George Washington University, noted that Carter’s successful treatment “would have been considered a miracle just 15 to 20 years ago.” The former president’s willingness to speak openly about his diagnosis and treatment sparked widespread interest in immunotherapy, leading to increased research and investment in the field.
Since Carter’s diagnosis, at least 15 new treatments for stage 4 melanoma have been approved, dramatically improving survival rates. Dr. Sepna Patel of the University of Colorado remarked, “Now 4 in 5 metastatic melanoma patients who have the response that President Carter had are now surviving 10 years with their melanoma.”
Carter’s impact extended beyond raising awareness. He became a symbol of hope for cancer patients, particularly older individuals concerned about treatment side effects. Dr. Vernon Sondak of Moffitt Cancer Center said, “I frequently mention President Carter and his favorable experience when I discuss immunotherapy with patients.”
The former president’s journey also highlighted the importance of clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments. Richard Murphy, another melanoma patient treated with pembrolizumab, shared, “After I was diagnosed, I just hoped I’d see my youngest daughter go to kindergarten. Now maybe I can see her get married.” Carter’s legacy in the cancer community is one of courage, openness, and hope. By sharing his experience so publicly, he not only raised awareness of new treatment options but also demonstrated that even in the face of a dire diagnosis, innovative therapies can lead to life-changing results.
