Ethel Kennedy Hospitalized After Suffering Stroke

Kennedy Family Matriarch, 96, Surrounded by Loved Ones as She Recovers

Ethel Kennedy, the widow of former United States Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, is recovering after suffering a stroke last week, according to her grandson, former Rep. Joe Kennedy III. In a statement shared to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Joe Kennedy confirmed that his 96-year-old grandmother had the stroke in her sleep and is now receiving treatment at an area hospital.

“She is comfortable, she is getting the best care possible, and she is surrounded by family,” Joe Kennedy said. “She is, as you may know, a strong woman who has led a remarkably fulfilling life. We are here looking after her.”

Ethel Kennedy, known for her resilience and dedication to human rights, has remained a central figure in the Kennedy family for decades. As the mother of 11 children, including prominent environmental activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and the grandmother to numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she has left an indelible mark on both her family and the nation.

Joe Kennedy reflected on the special moments his grandmother had enjoyed in recent months, noting that she had a “great summer and transition into fall,” where she spent time with her loved ones. “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 us all and to her as well,” he added.

Kennedy also asked the public to keep his grandmother in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time while requesting privacy for the family.

Ethel Kennedy, who became a widow in 1968 at the age of 40 after her husband Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated during his presidential campaign, has dedicated her life to social justice causes. She founded the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights shortly after her husband’s death and continued to be a leading advocate for human rights around the world. Her lifelong contributions were recognized in 2014 when she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by then-President Barack Obama.

As Ethel Kennedy recovers, the Kennedy family is united in support, reflecting the strength and grace that have characterized her life.

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