LEWISTON, ID (AP)–With speculation flying, Bruce Jenner’s mother opened up Wednesday about his gender journey.

Esther Jenner, 88, has been besieged by calls from the media in recent days, but the widow in Lewiston, Idaho, isn’t interested in fueling gossip. Instead, in a wide-ranging, nearly hour-long phone interview, she praised her Olympian son for his courage, stopping short of some details that have been floated by unnamed sources online and in tabloids.

Bruce Jenner, who won gold as a decathlete in the 1976 Summer Games, has not publicly spoken about transitioning to a woman. His appearance has gradually become more traditionally feminine. A publicist for the 65-year-old Jenner would not comment about his mother’s remarks. Nor would E! Entertainment on word that Jenner will appear in a reality series about his journey.

Speaking to Associated Press writer Leanne Italie, Esther said that she had spoken to her son after he called her to have a “serious converation” about his gender identity.

“It was brief and I said I was proud of him and that I’ll always love him,” Esther said. “I never thought I could be more proud of Bruce when he reached his goal in 1976, but I’m more proud of him now. It takes a lot of courage to do what he’s doing.”

Despite early speculation about conflict within his family about the issue, Esther left no doubt that Jenner has the complete support of his family.

“It was a shock. It’s hard to wrap your mind around it.” Esther said upon learning of his gender identity issue. “The family is close and very supportive of Bruce and we’re supportive of each other.”

According to Esther, Jenner told his mother, “I want to be honest about my identity and I know this is coming out in the press.”

Esther left no doubt about her complete support of his decision. “I am at peace with what he is and what he’s doing.”

Jenner has signed a deal for a one-on-one interview special with ABC newsperson Diane Sawyer. The interview will air in May. The move was a controversial one for Jenner to make since his reality series is on E!, a subsidiary of NBC/Universal.

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