The day you become a parent is a day you will carry with you for the rest of your life. Suddenly, a unique little individual has been welcomed into the world and is dependent on you. It’s your job to create the best conditions for them and help them fulfill their dreams.
When Adriana Iliescu became a mother for the first time in 2005, her story captured global attention—for one extraordinary reason: she was 66 years old.
The moment Adriana welcomed her daughter Eliza into the world, her joy knew no bounds.
Now, 17 years later, the devoted mother is back in the spotlight as recent photos of Eliza spark renewed interest and admiration.
There are moments in life that change everything—and for many, becoming a parent is one of them. The experience of holding your child for the first time is beyond words, an unforgettable milestone.
Some children make history the day they’re born. That was the case for Eliza Iliescu, born in Romania in 2005. Her birth was historic because of her mother’s age.
At 66, Adriana Iliescu became the world’s oldest mother at the time, a record that earned her a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Naturally, her story made headlines around the world.
In 2010, Adriana spoke openly about her journey into motherhood. Despite the joy it brought her, she faced harsh criticism. Many labeled her as selfish or too old to raise a child—but Adriana remained proud and committed to her role as a mother.
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“The mirror may not be kind to women, but if we’re talking about energy, I feel like I’m 27,” Adriana Iliescu told the Daily Mail. “Even when I’m a bit tired, I still only feel about 37. I’m healthier than women half my age.”
Despite public judgment, Adriana never let age define her. “People think they’re being clever when they call me ‘granny,’ but I didn’t have Eliza to appear younger. I never feel my years.”
In her interview with the British tabloid, the then 71-year-old also shared surprising news—she was considering having another child.
“Medically, it’s possible,” she said. “I understand there are trials involving a 70-year-old woman in England, so it could be done. I’m healthy and I believe it’s possible for me too, though I’m not in any rush.”
Like most mothers and daughters, Adriana and Eliza have developed a deep and loving bond over the years. Eliza is known for her bright personality—she’s energetic, cheerful, and full of laughter.
While some continue to question Adriana’s age and parenting, she remains confident in her role as a mother. She insists that everything she does is for Eliza’s well-being.
“I don’t smoke, and I don’t drink,” Adriana explains. “If I live as long as my parents did, Eliza will be 20 by the time I pass away. I still have so much to give her.”
Adriana didn’t choose to become a mother later in life. In her younger years, she faced heartbreaking circumstances. As a newlywed, she was forced to terminate a pregnancy for medical reasons. Then, at just 24, her husband left her.
After facing early heartbreak, Adriana redirected her focus to her academic career, dedicating herself to teaching at a university in Romania.
“I couldn’t even think about having a child—I was working,” she explained. “But by the time I was 37 and had completed my doctorate, I felt ready. Unfortunately, IVF wasn’t available back then.”
It wasn’t until Adriana was 57 that in-v
itro fertilization became an option in Romania. Eager to become a mother, she underwent treatment. Sadly, her first pregnancy in 2000 ended in failure.
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When Adriana shared her desire to become a mother, many people turned their backs on her. Critics accused her of being selfish or immoral, but she never let their judgment shake her determination. Her dream of motherhood remained stronger than ever.
Eventually, Adriana sought the help of Dr. Bogdan Marinescu in Bucharest, a decision that would change her life. Under his care, she finally became pregnant—but the journey was not without heartbreak. She was carrying triplets, but tragically, two of the babies died in the womb. Only one survived: Eliza.
Eliza was born prematurely and had to spend an extended period in the neonatal intensive care unit. It was a difficult start to life, but she pulled through—and Adriana finally had the daughter she had longed for.
In time, Eliza grew into a strong and spirited little girl. As a devoutly religious woman, Adriana was eager to have her daughter baptized—a moment she had long dreamed of.
However, not everyone shared in her joy. Several religious institutions criticized Adriana for becoming a mother so late in life. During the baptism ceremony, some of the nuns cast disapproving glances, and one even went so far as to call her “a product of dark forces.”
Despite the judgment, Adriana remained steadfast in her faith and love. To her, there was no question: “Eliza is a gift from God,” she said with conviction.
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Adriana Iliescu Today
By 2022, 17 years had passed since Adriana Iliescu made headlines as the world’s oldest new mother. Today, she and her daughter Eliza continue to share a close and joyful bond—though many still mistake Adriana for Eliza’s grandmother.
Despite her age, Adriana says she feels strong both physically and mentally. She believes that love, not age, is what truly matters when raising a child—and she has plenty to give.
Now 83, Adriana remains active and intellectually sharp. She has written over 25 children’s books and still works as a part-time lecturer in Bucharest. Her passion for education and storytelling hasn’t waned, even if her appearance draws comparisons to a great-grandmother.
Adriana has also taken thoughtful steps to secure Eliza’s future. When she pursued IVF, she arranged with her doctor that he would become Eliza’s godfather and legal guardian if anything were to happen to her. It’s a testament to Adriana’s foresight and deep care for her daughter’s well-being.
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For now, Adriana prefers to keep her family life private, but what is known speaks volumes. Seventeen-year-old Eliza has grown into a bright and ambitious young woman. According to Brightside, she is an award-winning student, following in her mother’s academic footsteps and aspiring to attend college in the near future.
Adriana’s devotion as a mother is evident. Despite public scrutiny, she has provided her daughter with a stable, loving environment—free of distractions and full of purpose. Many would say she’s done a better job than people half her age.
Eliza appears happy, well-rounded, and deeply grounded—a beautiful soul raised with care, resilience, and love. Together, they’ve proven that family isn’t defined by age, but by the strength of the bond between parent and child.
