The miracle of parenthood is an experience that stays with you forever. Suddenly, a unique little individual is brought into the world, completely dependent on you. It becomes your mission to create the best conditions for them and help them fulfill their dreams. In 2005, Adriana Iliescu made headlines around the world as she became a mother for the first time at the age of 66. The birth of her daughter Eliza brought infinite happiness to her life. Now, 17 years later, this elderly mother and her daughter are once again in the spotlight, captivating the hearts of many.
There are certain moments in life that change everything. Ask any parent and they’ll tell you that the moment they laid eyes on their child for the first time was indescribable. It’s a feeling that cannot be put into words. Some children are born into history, and Eliza Iliescu was one of them. Born in 2005 in Romania, Eliza became historic simply because of her mother. Adriana Iliescu, at 66 years old, became the world’s oldest mother at the time. Her extraordinary journey made headlines, and she even found a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Becoming a mother at an advanced age can invite criticism and judgment from others. Adriana faced social rejection and was labeled as selfish and too old. However, she firmly defended her decision and her ability to be a great parent. In an interview with the Daily Mail, she said, “The mirror is unkind to women, but if we are talking about my energy, then I feel like a young woman. I feel like I’m 27 and when I feel a bit more tired, I feel like I’m 37. I am healthier than women more than half my age.” Adriana’s energy and positivity defy societal expectations.
Despite the criticism, Adriana had plans to have another child. She believed it was medically possible and mentioned ongoing trials with a 70-year-old woman in England. However, she also emphasized that she was in no rush for another child at the moment. Adriana’s focus remained on her beloved daughter Eliza, with whom she shares a strong bond. Eliza is an energetic, funny, and very happy child.
Age is just a number for Adriana. She leads a healthy lifestyle, refraining from smoking and drinking. In fact, she believes that if she lives as long as her parents did, Eliza will be 20 years old by the time she passes away. Adriana is determined to give her daughter everything she needs and more. She cherishes the time they spend together and sees herself as a parent with plenty left to offer.
Adriana’s path to motherhood was not an easy one. Being a mother didn’t align with her career at the time, so she had to wait until later in life. In-vitro fertilization became available in Romania when Adriana was 57 years old. She underwent treatment, but her first pregnancy in 2000 ended in failure. Despite facing rejection and negative opinions, Adriana’s determination didn’t waver. She sought treatment with Dr. Bogdan Marinescu in Bucharest, ultimately leading to the birth of her daughter Eliza. Although Adriana became pregnant with triplets, only Eliza survived, enduring a premature birth and a lengthy stay in the NICU.
Adriana’s strong religious beliefs led her to baptize Eliza. Unfortunately, some religious organizations disapproved of Adriana’s decision to become a mother at such an advanced age. During Eliza’s baptism, Adriana faced judgmental looks and even encountered someone who called her daughter “the product of dark force”. Undeterred by this harsh criticism, Adriana believed that Eliza was a gift from God.
Today, 17 years after becoming a mother, Adriana and Eliza continue to share a beautiful bond. Despite being mistaken for Eliza’s grandmother, Adriana feels young in both body and mind. She pours her love into raising Eliza, an essential aspect of being a parent. At 83 years old, Adriana remains active in her writing career, having authored over 25 children’s books. She is also a part-time lecturer in Bucharest, defying expectations with her vitality.
Adriana has taken measures to ensure Eliza’s future is secure. She made a deal with the doctor who assisted her with IVF, designating him as Eliza’s godfather and legal guardian in the event of her passing. While Adriana wishes to keep her family life private for now, we know that Eliza aspires to study and attend college. At 17 years old, Eliza is already an award-winning student and follows in her mother’s academic footsteps.
Adriana’s story is a testament to the profound love of a mother, regardless of age. She defied odds, faced societal rejection, and continued to pursue her dream of becoming a mother. Today, Adriana and Eliza embody the strength of their unbreakable bond, proving that age is just a number when it comes to love and parenthood.
