As Donald Trump prepares to celebrate his 80th birthday on June 14, the President has revealed he’s less than enthusiastic about reaching the milestone.
Just days before entering his ninth decade, Trump made a rare candid admission while speaking with Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, in the Oval Office.
“You don’t have to wish me happy birthday because I’m not happy about that birthday that I’m having,” Trump said in a video shared by Dr. Oz. “That’s a number that I never thought really too much about. It’s not a number I like, but I’m here, nevertheless.”
The conversation took place on June 11, which happened to be Dr. Oz’s 66th birthday. Standing near preparations for a major Ultimate Fighting Championship event on the White House South Lawn, Trump joked that while he was happy to celebrate others, he wasn’t particularly keen on his own milestone.
© Getty ImagesA birthday unlike any other
Trump’s birthday falls on a busy day in Washington. June 14 also marks Flag Day and coincides with celebrations surrounding the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The UFC event, which forms part of the commemorations, will take place on the South Lawn, with Trump personally inviting Dr. Oz to attend.
“We’re going to have a fight and it’s going to be on June 14th and you are invited,” Trump said. “You’re a young man. You have many, many years to go. You’re doing a fantastic job. And you don’t have to wish me a happy birthday.”
Despite his reluctance to embrace the number 80, Trump has consistently projected confidence about his health and energy levels.
© Getty Images“I feel the same way I did 50 years ago”
During an Oval Office event last month, the President claimed he feels no different than he did decades ago. “I feel the same way I did 50 years ago,” he said. “I don’t know why.”
The comment came despite his well-documented love of fast food, burgers and soft drinks. “Maybe junk food is good and the other food is no good,” Trump joked, adding that he knows many people who carefully watch their diets while others who indulge seem to thrive.
His remarks followed the release of a recent medical report from White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella, who declared the President to be in “excellent health” following a physical examination in May.
According to the report, an AI-assisted electrocardiogram analysis suggested Trump’s cardiovascular health was comparable to that of someone approximately 14 years younger.
© AFP via Getty ImagesHealth scrutiny continues
The assessment came after months of public speculation about Trump’s health. Questions were raised following appearances showing swelling around his ankles, bruising on his hands and skin discoloration near his right ear.
The White House attributed the ankle swelling to chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that affects blood flow in the legs. Officials said bruising on his hands was the result of frequent handshaking and aspirin use, while the discoloration near his ear was linked to a topical cream. Trump later dismissed concerns about additional bruising on his left hand, saying it occurred after he struck a table.
© Getty ImagesA major milestone
Whether he likes the number or not, Trump is about to join an exclusive club of octogenarians.
The President, who became the oldest person ever inaugurated into office, has shown no signs of slowing down and continues to maintain a packed public schedule. As for how he plans to celebrate turning 80, the White House has yet to reveal any birthday plans.
Read the full article here
