Jimmy Hernandez, who celebrated his momentous birthday by skydiving, still allows himself the occasional indulgence, but highlighted the importance of living a clean life
(Image: Fox40 News)
A centenarian who still drives, climbs on his roof, and recently braved a skydive has revealed the surprising meal he’s “got to have”. Jimmy Hernandez celebrated his landmark 100th birthday on August 29 by skydiving, having found inspiration in the late George H.W. Bush’s own jump when he took on the feat.
A Second World War veteran, Jimmy claimed that it “wasn’t scary” and had wanted to try it for “some time”, despite his 51-year-old granddaughter, Vickey Hernandez, thinking he was a “little crazy”.
Yet, Jimmy’s age doesn’t seem to get in the way of other things, too. Indeed, he’s still comfortable climbing onto his roof to complete repair work, driving and even dancing.
Great-great-grandfather Jimmy, from San Luis Obispo, California, has a staggering 12 children and 34 grandchildren. His huge family also includes 64 great-grandchildren.
When it comes to enjoying life, he still allows himself the occasional indulgence, including steaks and the odd shot of tequila. He also has something of a sweet tooth.
Jimmy told TODAY.com: “Dessert, I’ve got to have that. We always have coffee and pie. I like peach pie and apple pie. A donut once in a while.”
Despite this, in what could potentially offer us a clue to Jimmy’s remarkable longevity, he went on to note the importance of living a clean life and avoiding certain things.
He said: “You’ve got to live a clean life and don’t abuse liquor or smoking or even food. You can’t just sit and watch TV because you get fat. You’ve got to exercise… You can’t just let yourself go.”
In fact, Jimmy continues to enjoy life independently with his wife, Dora, 91, and, astonishingly, he has expressed an interest in tackling yet another skydive when he celebrates his 101st birthday next year.
(Image: Fox40 News)
Jimmy, who served in the Pacific during the war and worked as a carpenter until he was 91, conceded that he’s had some health issues but has never suffered from either heart disease or cancer.
In addition to what he described as some help from “up above”, he credits this incredible work ethic for his 100-year life, disclosing that he’s worked hard his entire life and “many hours”.
Jimmy, who also enjoyed a dance at his birthday party, highlighted the importance of a positive mindset. He added that you’ve “got to live positive” and it’s the “only way to go”.
However, it seems genetics could also play a part, as his mother lived to 90, while one of his aunts reached 102. Vickey mentioned that she’d like to live a long life like Jimmy, providing she’s has the same health.
Finally, in a heartwarming admission, Jimmy revealed that he intends to make skydiving a yearly occurrence, “If God keeps me here”.