Ethel Kennedy, a prominent human rights advocate and the widow of former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, is on the mend following a stroke she experienced last week, as reported by her grandson on Tuesday.
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At 96 years old, Ethel is the sister-in-law of the late President John F. Kennedy. Her grandson, former Representative Joe Kennedy III from Massachusetts, shared details on X, stating, “Unfortunately, she suffered a stroke in her sleep on Thursday morning. She has since been taken to a local hospital, where she is receiving treatment.”
Joe Kennedy III assured the public, “She is comfortable, receiving excellent care, and is surrounded by family. As many of you know, she is a strong woman who has lived a remarkably fulfilling life. We are all here to support her.”
Ethel Kennedy is the matriarch of a large family, with 11 children, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her grandson noted, “She has had a wonderful summer and has transitioned into fall well. She enjoyed time on the water, visited the pier, and shared many meals with family.”
He concluded his message by asking for privacy for the family during this time.
In 1969, Ethel established the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights nonprofit in honor of her late husband, who was assassinated while campaigning for the presidency. At just 40 years old, she became a widow with ten children and was pregnant with their eleventh child at the time. Remarkably, she has never remarried.

Ethel has been actively involved with various human rights organizations, including co-chairing the Coalition of Gun Control. In 2014, former President Barack Obama honored her with the Congressional Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award, commending her for her “love of family” and dedication to her country.
During the White House ceremony, Obama remarked, “She is a symbol of enduring faith and hope, even in the face of unimaginable loss and grief. Her generosity and grace have touched the lives of countless people around the world.”