Tatiana Schlossberg, the granddaughter of John F. Kennedy, revealed in a heartfelt essay published in 'The New Yorker' that she has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, specifically acute myeloid leukemia. Diagnosed shortly after the birth of her second child, Schlossberg reflected on her prognosis, noting that her doctor estimates she could have about a year left to live.
In her essay, released on the 62nd anniversary of JFK's assassination, Schlossberg, who is an environmental journalist, detailed her extensive battle against the disease, including rounds of chemotherapy and multiple stem cell transplants. She expressed deep concerns about her children's future, fearing that her daughter and son may not remember her as they grow older: I watched as Bobby cut nearly a half billion dollars for research into mRNA vaccines, technology that could be used against certain cancers, she wrote, taking issue with policies championed by her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who currently serves as Health and Human Services Secretary.
Schlossberg's discussion on family pain illustrated the emotional burden she faces as her family attempts to shield her from their own distress. She poignantly stated, Now I have added a new tragedy to her life, to our family’s life, and there’s nothing I can do to stop it. The essay not only reveals her personal struggles but also presents a critique of the health policies affecting cancer research and care, emphasizing the impact these decisions can have on individuals facing serious health challenges.
