Feb 20 • 22:59 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

109 years of life and 138 descendants: Paranapanema resident says the secret to longevity is 'having faith in God'

Dona Lázara Barbosa from Paranapanema, Brazil, celebrates her 109th birthday, attributing her longevity to her strong faith in God and her large family of 138 descendants.

Dona Lázara Barbosa, who recently celebrated her remarkable 109th birthday, has built a vibrant and expansive family tree with 15 children, 45 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren. Her story highlights the pride and inspiration her life brings to her family, with her son, Edson Barbosa, emphasizing the disbelief and admiration it generates among those who hear it. Living in the interior of São Paulo, her life reflects the values of family and tradition that are often cherished in Brazilian culture.

Born on February 20, 1917, Lázara's life began in Guareí before moving to Paranapanema, where she continued to nurture her large family through the years. Her longevity is not merely a statistic but a testament to the family's strong bonds, which are acknowledged and celebrated on such milestone occasions. These interlinking generations embody a living legacy that grows larger with each new family member, strengthening family ties and community connections.

For Dona Lázara, faith is not just a personal belief but a guiding principle that plays a significant role in her daily life. She credits her long life to her steadfast belief in God, as well as in saints like Saint Francis and Saint Joseph, to whom she prays nightly. This profound connection to her faith offers insights into her perspective on life and longevity, suggesting that a strong spiritual foundation may contribute to well-being and resilience through trials, all while fostering a sense of purpose and belonging in her extensive family network.

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