Ethel Kennedy, Matriarch of the Kennedy Family, Is Hospitalized Following Stroke

Caroline Hallemann
·2 min read
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Ethel Kennedy Suffers Stroke, Family SaysFilmmagic - Getty Images

Ethel Kennedy, the widow of Robert F. Kennedy and the matriarch of the Kennedy family, has been hospitalized after suffering from a stroke, her grandson Joe Kennedy III shared on social media this evening.

The former congressman and current United States Special Envoy for Northern Ireland first posted the news on X (formerly Twitter) around 7 p.m. eastern time on Tuesday, captioning his post: "Sharing some news about one of my heroes."

He went on to describe how his grandmother suffered a stroke on Thursday morning and how she is "getting the best care possible" at an "area hospital." He also called for both thoughts and prayers, and privacy at this time.

Read his full message below:

"I wanted to let you know about my incredible grandmother, Ethel Kennedy

She has had a great summer and transition into fall. Every day she enjoyed time with her children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was able to get out on the water, visit the pier, and enjoy many lunches and dinners with family. It has been a gift to all of us and to her as well.

Unfortunately, on Thursday morning she suffered a stroke in her sleep. She was brought to an area hospital, where she is now receiving treatment. She is comfortable, she is getting the best care possible, and she is surrounded by family. She is, as you may know, a strong woman who has led a remarkably fulfilling life. We are here looking after her.

Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. We ask that you respect our family's privacy at this time."

Earlier this year, Ethel celebrated her 96th birthday surrounded by her many children and grandchildren, including her son Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who recently suspended his presidential bid and endorsed former president Donald Trump. Amid the news about his mother's health, he appears to be continuing to campaign.

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