Ted Kennedy, the US senator and brother of President John F Kennedy, has died after a year-long battle with cancer. He was 77.
By Bonnie Malkin and agencies in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts
Published: 7:02AM BST
26 Aug 2009
As Senator Edward Kennedy, he was one of the most influential and longest-serving senators in US history – a liberal standard-bearer who was also known as a consummate congressional dealmaker.
Sen Kennedy had been battling brain cancer, which was diagnosed in May 2008. He died at his home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts.
Known as the “liberal lion” of the senate, he was the brother of President Kennedy, assassinated in 1963, Senator Robert Kennedy, fatally shot while campaigning for the 1968 Democratic presidential nomination, and Joe Kennedy, a pilot killed in World War Two.
“We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever,” the Kennedy family said in a statement.
“We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all.
“He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it.”
Even in the months leading up to his death, Sen Kennedy championed health care reform, working wages and equal rights. In August, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the nation’s highest civilian honor — by President Obama.
He underwent successful brain surgery after being diagnosed but his health continued to deteriorate. He suffered a seizure while attending the luncheon following President Barack Obama’s inauguration.
Kennedy was first elected to the Senate in 1962, at the age of 30, and his tenure there would span four decades.
Telegraph