Ethel Kennedy, the widow of former U.S. Attorney General and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, experienced a stroke last week, as confirmed by her family.
In posts shared on social media Tuesday evening, the Kennedy family revealed that the 96-year-old matriarch had the stroke during her sleep on Thursday morning and was subsequently hospitalized. The family, who owns the Kennedy Compound in Hyannis on Cape Cod, did not provide details on where the stroke occurred or the hospital where she is being treated.
“She is comfortable, receiving the best possible care, and is surrounded by family,” the statement, shared by several family members including Kennedy’s daughter Kerry Kennedy and grandson Joe Kennedy III, a former Massachusetts congressman, read. “She is, as you may know, a strong woman who has led a remarkably fulfilling life. We are looking after her. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers, and we ask for your respect regarding our family’s privacy at this time.”
The statement highlighted that Ethel Kennedy enjoyed a “great summer and transition into fall,” spending quality time with her children, grandchildren, and extended family. “She was able to get out on the water, visit the pier, and enjoy many lunches and dinners with family,” it noted.
Ethel married Robert F. Kennedy in 1950, and the couple had 11 children, two of whom have passed away. Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated on June 6, 1968, shortly after winning the California Democratic primary in his presidential campaign.
Ethel has established an organization in her husband’s name that focuses on human rights. The nonprofit organization presents annual awards to journalists, authors, and others who have made significant contributions to human rights. She has also been involved with the Coalition of Gun Control, the Special Olympics, and the Earth Conservation Corps.
For many Americans, the Kennedy family symbolizes a form of political royalty, with the JFK era often referred to as “Camelot,” reflecting a sense of national optimism that was brought about by the youthful president and his stylish wife, Jacqueline Kennedy.