What kind of brain tumor does Kennedy have?
Sen. Edward Kennedy has been diagnosed with a malignant glioma. Here's the National Cancer Institute's explanation of the tumor:
Malignant gliomas are the most common primary brain tumor, accounting for more than half of the more than 18,000 primary malignant brain tumors diagnosed each year in the United States. These tumors are the second-most common cause of cancer death in the 15 to 44 age group.
The outlook for patients with malignant gliomas is poor. Median survival for patients with moderately severe (grade III) malignant gliomas is three to five years. For patients with the most severe, aggressive form of malignant glioma (grade IV glioma or glioblastoma multiforme), median survival is less than a year.
Surgery is recommended for all operable brain tumors and is usually followed by radiation therapy. Several studies have shown that adding chemotherapy to radiation can improve patients' survival. In June 2004, after the completion of the current study, researchers announced that adding the drug temozolomide (Temodar®) to radiation therapy increased median survival in patients with glioblastoma multiforme by about two months (see related story). This approach is now considered the standard of care for the initial treatment of these tumors.
very sorry to hear about the brain tumor,my prayers are ted and the entire family.
A TRUE HERO TO ME- AND A GREAT AMERICAN STATESMAN- GET WELL TEDDY- WE LOVE YA !!!
This is terrible news. Ted Kennedy is the soul of the liberal democratic party and virtually irreplaceable. I am a proud liberal and at the age of 57 I have seen and experienced a lot. I put Ted Kennedy in the same category as Nelson Mandella and the Dali Lama.
What a shame. Ted Kennedy is the lion of the Senate and a constant fighter for the poor and middle class.
Karen
the survival numbers you quote are dated and there is much movement in the field suggesting better outcomes are possible beyond currently quoted survival numbers
thank you
This has got to make the Liberals very sad indeed.
Well, we all get a day of humility to seek that which truly matters.
I suggest Mr. Kennedy get to seeking.
Although I do not agree with Sen. Kennedy's views and opinions, I wish him and his family well through this tough time. Compasion always comes first ... politics later.
Really classy comment, Zeke.
Zeke's comments just show the soul-lessness and depravity of conservatives. God bless Ted Kennedy.
My prayers are with you and your family at this time . We pray for Gods' will for you at this time .
HE LOOK OUT FOR BLACKS ,AND THE POOR ..........
THANK GOD FOR HIM...........
I'm so happy to hear the news!
Finally the world will be rid of one more idiot.
Ted Kennedy has championed the social justice and community service values that I've believed in my entire life. He's an icon and, yes, a "Lion of the Senate." We're praying for you in Georgia, Senator Kennedy.
This is very sad news. I wish Ted Kennendy and his family the very best and they will be in my prayers.
It's a sad day for the Senate. Wish him the best.
Zeke, your comment is of very poor taste.
Zeke, you are truly scum of the earth.
Good think Mr. Obama is rising right now.
I am truly saddened by this news, one of our great warriors for human rights and someone who truly speaks for the people now needs his own time for healing. Thank you Senator Kennedy for all your hard work and representation. You are one of the few who understands our pain. Blessings, Mary
How much money would it take to cure cancer?
How much money is spent on wars?
You know the answer.
Centuries have passed and this sort of illness is still a suffering death sentence.
You will probably be affected by it too sometime unless we change
the direction of government spending.
It starts with YOU.
Senator Kennedy has had his share of difficulties in life where money made no difference and no solution could have been bought. He has held up well and strong through them all. Our prayers are with him and his family. I pray his strength will sustain him and will speak to the nation.
Zeke, I suggest that you are a tool to impose what you think Ted kennedy or anyone else with malignant cancer should be doing. You are a clown. Why not reflect on that...your an idiot and that is what matters here
Our thoughts and prayers are with Senator Kennedy and his family.
Zeke, nice job illustrating "compassionate" conservativism...
No matter what a person may think of Mr. Kennedy, no one should take any pleasure in what has taken place here.
We should all remember him and his family in our prayers
Zeke, Your comment is nauseating.
Hoe you get well soon.
To James Carbone -
I am 76 years old and I can assure you "young man" that TK is no Nelson Mandela or Dali Lama - if that were the case you should have included Ghandi.
I have a great deal of compassion for Mr. K at this time but he will want for nothing when it comes to medical treatment and the subsequent rehabilitation. He was born into a life of wealth and has attained, and retained, his office as the result of the machinations of his father many years ago. He, nor any of his ilk, has any realistic knowledge of how the ordinary or poor citizen of this nation lives from day to day.
I wish him a speedy and complete recovery but please don't annoint him as if he were some sort of saint to be lionized and revered. His personal history is full of piccadeloes that others would have been crucified for, most notably the death by drowning of Mary Jo Kopecnik.
Oh well. You reap what you sow.
While I have deplored much of his political liberalism, I certainly hope that he overcomes this medical problem.
I'm also 57 years old and clearly NOT a liberal, because I hve closely watched liberals operate and see what liberals, liberl media, liberal academia, and liberal groups have done to destroy our country.
The Dali Lama? Ted Kennedy? You're kidding, I hope.
As a cancer patient, and a friend to someone who has also been dx with a glioblstoma multiforme, I can tell you that it is time for Senator Kennedy to take stock and finish up his earthly business, yet while struggling to survive. He hs worked hard for those things he believed in, he hs much to be proud of. On a personal level, I'm sure now would be the time to finally say "I'm so sorry" to the many many people he harmed long the way. Joan Bennett Kennedy at the top of the list, the Kopechne family of Milton MA, whose daughter died at Kennedy's hands, and the many many others who have been personally ruined by him. It will not only bring him inner peace, such s that enjoyed by the Dalai Lama, sometimes forgiveness is the very thing that heals.
This news breaks my heart. Ted Kennedy is a champion for regular and marginalized people in the U.S.. My thoughts and prayers are with all the Kennedys and extended families and friends.
An icon by any definition. The Kennedy's are to the baby boomer generation what the Royal Family of the UK are to the Britts. I am proud to be a liberal and admire the Kennedy family and their ability to rise above all that their family has endured.
My thoughts and prayers are with you Mr. Kennedy - fight the fight and win this battle our country needs you now more than ever!!
I would think it would make all human beings of compassion "sad indeed." Not just liberals. Perhaps, Zeke, you should take your own advise and spend a day in humility seeking that which truly matters.
God Bless Mr. Kennedy, I don't agree with you on a lot of things, but you are in my prayers.
Hope you get well, we need statesmen like you. Prayers are with you.
Its a very sad day in Boston, the Kennedys have dedicated his life to public service. We are all praying for Teddie.
My thoughts and pryers are with Senator Kennedy and his family. He remains an indispensible asset to the Commonwealth and the nation
My heart goes out to the Kennedy family and especially Senator Kennedy. My prayer is that with all the modern medical measures, that there will be a miracle.
As a conservative I too am deeply saddened by this news. I may not agree with his policital positions but he strongly believes in what he stands for, and I do admire him for that. My prayers are with him and his family as they all have been through so much.
Zeke, I'm curious as to what falls under your definition of "that which truly matters". I can only assume that taking time to pollute the comments section of boston.com with utterly insensitive, moronic, partisan drivel is at the top of the list.
Best of luck to Senator Kennedy in the fight ahead.
How does his advanced age factor into the progression of this?
wishing the senator ted kennedy easy battle with his brain tumor. i do love him for his courage to tell people the truth., and not what they want to hear.
i appreciate him for endorcing barack obama.
i will pray for his full recovery.
HANG IN THERE TED
YOU'VE GOT A LOT OF FIGHT LEFT IN YOU PAL
JIMMY ARLINGTON MASS.
it is safe to say that Massachusetts will be having a special Senate election before Ted's term is up...My prediction is that Ted will not be here next year at this time...I give him 10 months to 13 months TOPS!!
Liberal, conservative.does it mater what one's political affiliation is ? A husband, father, grandfather,uncle, has been given a very serious diagnosis. One would hope that a person could look beyond his political position and look to Sen. Kennedy's family ties and have some compassion for both. I am sure the Kennedy family would give up any political success they've experienced instead of the tragedies they've suffered. Sen. Kennedy and his family are in our prayers.
Anyone diagnosed with this deserves our prayers, best wishes and sympathy. Best of luck to a real fighter.
What a world we live in when another human being cannot receive our prayer because we do not beleive in his politics. Zeke you are gonna burn in hell. God bless you Mr. Kennedy and you are in my prayers.
No matter what your political persuasion, this is not a diagnosis you would want for anyone. Some of the previous comments, both liberal and conservative, reflect a lack of class. May Senator Kennedy find peace and privacy with his family.
I sit a few floors below the Senator at MGH, with my 2 1/2 year old son receiving chemo for brain tumors. From our window I see a $100M proton beam radiation therapy center that I know the Senator and my son will both be utilizing soon. Expensive, yes -but it holds the promise of dramatically lower side effects, particularly important when irradiating the brain. The cognitive and developmental impact of traditional radiation on the brain is nothing to take lightly.
Zeke, cancer knows no politics. I believe the Senator knows well what really matters. I'd be very surprised if he WEREN'T somehow partially to thank for that facility being there.
One day Boston sees a tremendous achievement by cancer survivor Jon Lester, the next day the beast lashes out again. Joy and sadness.
Perfect reason why blogging is stupid....comments like Zeke's
Get Well Mr Kennedy!!
Dont give up on Ted Kennedy yet America. This family has suffered many tragedies as well as positive milestones. I read in the local paper a women lived with cancer for twenty four years before passing and dont forget about the Red Sox Pitcher that battled cancer two years ago. Sickness is only a state of mine. It's not a real entity. He's active and positive person. He as well as the Kennedy clan will make it thru this difficult time....hey he is a Kennedy....and lets not also forget America he has lived a full and positive life....my heart and prayers go out to his family and I know he will better soon and continue doing something else positive for our community. In this time of need lets not think of bi-partisanship....lets come together republican and democrat voters and look at the positive Ted Kennedy has done on both of our sides. Ted Kennedy will love you and will you well....
My thoughts and prayers are with Senator Ted Kennedy. I will always be grateful for the tireless contributions he has made to our country.
I am a simple Mom in Ohio,praying for Senator Kennedy. Politics aren't the issue here at all.
Sen. Kennedy is the opponent every politician should wish for. He is fair, reasonable and honest. He forces you to reassess your position and to strengthen or abandon it. May God bless!
Zeke No Class
Zeke is so typical of how uncharitable the so-called pious are.
Ted Kennedy has done more to better this country than almost any other politican I can think of. He has been the conscience of the Senate and will be sorely missed.
My heart goes out to his family.
I'd like to tell the family to educate themselves. There is so much information on this disease. MGH is world class! My brother was treated there and survived 5 years with a gbm.
There are miracle cases. Check out David Bailey! He is truly a miracle!
http://www.davidmbailey.com/index.cfm
Sen Kennedy is my idol. He is always going out of his way to fight for the underpriviledges. We will continue to pray for his speedy recovery. Sen Ken, we love you and still want you to live for many more years to come.
I am ashamed of some of you here claiming to be conservatives and expressing joy at this news. True conservatives believe in compassion for all, including their adversaries. While I have never agreed with the Senator when it comes to politics and policy, remember that it is possible to hate the policy and not the man. Senator Kennedy is passionate about the things that he believes in and should be repected for that.
Senator, I wish you well, and a long happy retirement.
Good Lord, let's not bury the Senator before his time! There are many stages of malignant tumors and as he is older, they do not progress as quickly as in younger people, (assuming his has not reached Stage3). My brother died at age 63 of a Stage4 glioblastoma. He lived for about 10 weeks after the diagnosis. Although I am not a fan of Senator Kennedy's political positions, I wish him and his family strength through these trying times. As St. Thomas More is quoted as saying; "Death comes to all of us, even for kings". Hopefully, Senator Kennedy will have many more years ahead of him.
What Scott said. He is a warrior in Congress for the needy, the poor, every downtrodden person who may be unrepresented. He is my hero, and we still need him.
Our life is in Gods hand so lets all pray for Mr Kennedy and his family. When it is time for us to go then we have to go sickness is just a excuse when we die of some kind of sickness
I met Teddy in 1962 at Haverhil Trade School. He was running for his 1st senate seat and touring all the high schools in the area. I was caught by surprise when I ran into him while trying to make the next class. We shook hands and spoke briefly. He was dressed in a dark blue suit and very handsome, I was very impressed! One year later I graduated and got my draft notice.I never forgot that meeting and I followed him all my life. HE'S A FIGHTER!!!
My thoughts, prayers, gratitude and love go out to you, Senator Kennedy. Since I am 74 years old, I have been on this planet long enough to see, know and appreciate the incalculable good you have done for this country. We need you as much or perhaps more now than ever. Since I know what a fighter you are, I am keeping my hopes high that you will soon be healthy, back in the Senate, and continuing to lead the good fight, often for those whose voices would not otherwise be heard.
Whatever happens from this point, I am confident that your spirit will give that malignancy a fight to the finish - and may you be victorious!! I will keep you in my prayers.
be brave and fight with it TED!
My sincerest condolences to the Kennedy family and friends at this time - he is a fighter and will continue the "good fight"!!
He nauseates me, but I hope he will do well. As for the Kennedy royalty crap........Please
I ADORE TED KENNEDY. I am horrified that he's sick and I hope he gets better. I can't believe these evil, hideous people who are saying they're glad. There's a special place in hell for people like that. Nobody should be happy that someone's gravely ill. I am so, so sad for Ted and his family. He's a good person, regardless of what these awful villains are saying. I hope he does okay with all of my heart.
My Mom died of this type of brain tumor 1 month and 1 day after her diagnosis. She did not opt for any treatment because it would have meant that she stayed in the hospital for the last months of her life and it would not, at that time, have improved her condition very much. It must be a sad day for his family to get this news. As for judging the senator's life, good and bad, I think that is up to a higher power than the readers of this site.
The Kennedy era is almost over...Never wished this would happen to anyone. I guess MA can maybe put in Gov. Romney now...? :-}
And what is this BS about him fighting for the poor. Do you have to have a Net Worth of $43-162 million to fight for the poor?
I guess you can vote to raise my taxes when you yourself can obviously afford them.
Senator Kennedy;
Just another bump in the road. I have Multiple Sclerosis my wife has Lung Cancer we take each day with a grain of salt, and are thankful for it. Your family has been an inspiration for me when times are tough. Many Prayers and Best wishes for you and the family.
I don't know Ted Kennedy personally but I watch cspan channel often for years looking at how our elected leaders discuss and debate issues important to us. I thought he had contributed so many ideas as well as solutions to solving many of our problems. We have been blessed for such a great leadership. Get well soon Mr. Senator. Know that God is with you and He won't let you through a situation you cannot handle yourself.Our prayers for you and your family.
This family, with all their glory and all their faults, has been for me, through out my life, a beacon of hope, a symbol of the goodness in men and women.
Losing John Kennedy was my painful coming of age.
Losing Bobby sparked within me the desire to fight for justice.
Jacky and John broke my heart.
Now Teddy?
Teddy has fought throughout his life, as I have mine, for the rights of us all. Please Teddy, we love you so. Don't leave us. We need you.
I am so saddened by this terrible news. Ted Kennedy is truly an icon, a champion for those of us without a voice. In a Washington controlled for the most part by greed and power, Senator Kennedy has been the voice of reason and compassion. Truly, a man of the people, I see no one who can replace him. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Victoria, and his loving family. This wonderful man is a fighter and God alone knows what the future holds for him or, for that matter, any of us.
To all those bashing liberals or conservatives here-- please, this is not the time or place for politics. Many of us who have little in common with Sen. Kennedy nevertheless like and admire him and will be praying for him. I truly hope he recovers and gets back to work.
Iam a conservative from nashville,tn. And have followed the Kennedys for many years. Although I disagree with many things the sen. fought for, Iam sadden by this news. My prayers go out to him and his family at this time. My Gods grace and mercy be with them.
My thoughts and prayers are with Ted Kennedy at this time. I know that there is huge variation in the outcomes of medical diagnosis, and I hope in his case that he finds his way back to full health. I personally know of a close family member who was given 6 months to a year to live after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. It is now 3 years later and the doctors consider him cured and he will be the subject of some upcoming medical studies.
I also want to thank Senator Kennedy for the fine leadership he has provided over his many years as our senator. Although he is wealthy and powerful, he has always championed those who have less advantages than the main of society. He has a very proud legacy and in difficult times, when our nation was most at fear, he has stood up for those things that matter most. Like love and compassion for the rights of all Americans, not just the priveleged few.
Thank you, Senator! May your health return soon.
"Conservative" does not spell or define non-caring or uncompassionate. Politics does dictate my heart when another human receives tragic personal news. When it comes to the Senator's health and well-being, I beleive both sides of the aisle nationwide are truly saddened of the news. My thoughts and prayers go out to Sen. Kennedy his family.
I send prayrs for Mr. Kennedy. As one who has worked for saving the unborn from abortions, I can only pray that Mr. Kennedy realizes the value of life for all of God's people. I know he has championed the poor and the children in his social concerns. How he can dismiss the gift of new birth and advocate abortions is a constant mystery for all of us who realize the precious gift each child is. May God be merciful!
So very sorry about this. Ted Kennedy has been my hero for 4 decades. He is in my prayers, as are his family and friends.
While I believe that Mr. Kennedy's work has done more harm to this country than good and would be happy to see him leave the senate, I certainly do not rejoice in learning of his condition as some others here seem to. I would much rather that he leave his senate seat under less dire circumstances.
Come on, folks -- even if you're a conservative and hate what he stands for, we're all still human here, are we not? No one should take joy in another's physical suffering. Let's try and keep the politics and the personal tragedy separate.
Cancer is an insidious monster. Nobody deserves to be put in its clutches. Liberal...conservative...black...white...purple...it knows no bounds. To "Zeke"...whoever you are. I hope that if you are ever ill, people will afford you more compassion than you gave to Ted Kennedy. ( Although you don't deserve it now. Maybe you'll grow up someday, and realize that we're all justtrying our best to get by in this world. People like you just make it harder!
God bless the Kennedy family.
I see all the hate poured out at Zeke as one more example of Liberal name calling and cursing aimed at people they do not like. I think Zeke was merely saying that now is the time for Teddy to seek forgiveness for his sins. What is wrong with that?
Since so many bloggers are using this as a platform to applaud Mr. Kennedy's achievements for the "little guy," would someone mind giving a few examples? I live in Massachusetts and can't think of one.
All politics aside, I wish Mr. Kennedy and his family comfort and peace.
Bless you Senator Kennedy and our love goes out to you and your family. Tom in Oregon
I am a 35 year old ultra paleo-conservative and I do not aggree with much of Mr. Kennedy's views. However, there is no reason to ever wish this on anyone. My prayers are with you and your family Ted and I pray for a full recovery.
Zeke, I suggest you practice what you preach. The one that needs the soul searching is you my good man.
Obviously I am upset with this news. Just how much tragedy does one family have to endure? Like his brothers, he has always fought for what he believed in, a better world, with less poverty and racism. I hope people can put politics aside and give Ted and the Kennedys support when they most need it. As has been said elsewhere, there are nice people on both the Republican and Democrat sides.
To the idiot who said America will be rid of one more idiot, hopefully that idiot will be you Mr. Haapy or whatever your name is. Ted and all of the Kennedys have been an ispiration in my life and the life of many "boomers." I have seen America lose too many Kennedys, from Jack, to Bobby, to Jackie Kennedy Onasis to JFK, Jr. I hope and pray that Ted will prevail and triumph over this horrible disease. As so many have said, America needs Senator Kennedy now more than ever. To those who made sickening commentary about the Senator "seeking what truly matters" and whatever other type of crap was mentioned, take a good look in the mirror before you criticize a great icon like Senator Kennedy!
As a grandfather of a 4 year old grandson who spent 2007 fighting brain cancer: two brain stem ops, chem twice and radiation, we understand brain cancer is no walk in the park. I do not agree with Ted's political philosophy but having witnessed what this can do to someone, I can only wish him well... that he has the fighting courage of our grandson and the support of his extended family...miracles do happen...our grandson is a living testimonial to the progress neurosurgeons and medicine has achieved in this day and age!!!!!
My best wishes to the Kennedy family. If it weren't for men like Kennedy and those that came before him; the common man would be up against even greater odds. Anyone here who feels the need to bring up subjects that "slam" this man, should think about their own family members and how you would feel if a stranger felt the need to denigrate a member of your own family if they were given a diagnosis that is as serious as this is. Who cares what he did that you don't like. The man is sick... wheres your heart?
Get well soon Senator Kennedy. I'm from Scotland and I've always admired you as a man of great principle. I'm thinking of you and your family tonight and hoping that the days to come will bring better news on the road to recovery. Take care Teddy.
My husband was diagnosed with a maligant glioma in the year 2002. He did opt for surgery, then chemo and radiation. Some of the most meaningful days of our marriage were during this time, and I recall his telling many "how blessed we were to have these years together." I loved him even more in illness than in full health. I think the Kennedy's have had an affinity for enjoying life while offering their country their continuous service. It is certainly possible to live a fairly normal life and participate in the business he loves most.
I am pained to hear his news, it brings back that day we received the results of Robert's MRI and then the surgery, which was initially thought to be benign.
I worked in Washington when Senator Kennedy was a very handsome carrier of the Kennedy torch.
My heart goes out to he and his family - I was so touched by the many stories of the brain tumor support group at Gilda's Club, so loved by my husband.
Our love and good wishes to those who love him.
Whatever your politics, there's been no greater fighter for healthcare and education than Teddy Kennedy. He never holds back on working harder than anyone for what he believes in. After all his family troubles, he could have more easily chosen to just fade away from being one of the most, if not the hardest working Senator, with the best staff in Washington for last 40 years. Has never stopped working for both his constituents and all of those who need a hand up in America. My hope is for Teddy to face this toughest battle with all the energy and
strength he can, if anyone can do this, it's Ted Kennedy.
Agree or disagree with Ted Kennedy but I would not want this to happen to my family or myself. Watch what you wish for as the Gods can come and bite you in the butt. I wish pain on no one, not even my enemies.
If you think you are above the fray, if you think you have done nothing wrong, if you think you are perfect than you have the right to condemn! I don't think anyone here can say that. Every single person in this life has skeletons in their closet. Shame on anyone who enjoys a person to suffer. Only sick people enjoy the pain on another.
By he way, those who want to condemn anyone who is suffering --- my question to you is --- Do you think you are God? Those who are Christians here, who made you God to judge?
We try to do our best - but to people who condemn, what are you doing to make this a better world? Just asking! What are you doing to make our country what Jesus Christ taught on this earth? Remember, Jesus forgave --- that is what christianity is all about not condemning.
As for those who feel the urge to judge Sen. Kennedy now that his "appointment" with death is more clear, please remember that "he who is without sin, cast the first stone." I'm sure Sen. Kennedy has regrets and isn't perfect...that sounds like all of us. However, hopefully he'll be remembered for the good he DID achieve and for whatever progress he championed. As for Liberals vs Conservatives re: the feelings the respective members of each side might have, just think that in life we earn our reputation and we should always take a hard look at our life and behavior and morality before judging someone elses.
I'm a conservative (and healthcare professional) who wishes Godspeed to the Senator and I pray that he enjoys and cherishes the rest of his life, and smoothly and painlessly passes when God deems appropriate.
As for those who feel the urge to judge Sen. Kennedy now that his "appointment" with death is more clear, please remember that "he who is without sin, cast the first stone." I'm sure Sen. Kennedy has regrets and isn't perfect...that sounds like all of us. However, hopefully he'll be remembered for the good he DID achieve and for whatever progress he championed. As for Liberals vs Conservatives re: the feelings the respective members of each side might have, just think that in life we earn our reputation and we should always take a hard look at our life and behavior and morality before judging someone elses.
I'm a conservative (and healthcare professional) who wishes Godspeed to the Senator and I pray that he enjoys and cherishes the rest of his life, and smoothly and painlessly passes when God deems appropriate.
Hang in there, Ted !! I was diagnosed 2 1/2 years ago with inoperable metastatic breast cancer, with a 13% chance of survival and expected prognosis of 3 to 6 months. But I told my doctor not to pick my number in the betting pool until January 20, 2009 because I WILL be there at the inauguration, no matter what!! Pay no attention to the depressing medical stats - the human body can work wonders with the right attitude (and stay away from those cell phones and diet soda, both of which cause brain cancer!). You can do it - Yes, We CAN!!
To Haapy Guy, Zeke and all the other "unwell" wishers out there... May God Bless you all in your time of need, which to me seems to be now... How sad for you that you can't rise above yourselves during someone else's sadness... may you never experience such pain.
God be with Senator Kennedy and his family
Regardless of whether or not you are liberal or conversative, republican or democrat - show some compassion!... I myself am a republican, and have not agreed many times with the politics of Senator Kennedy. However, I am deeply saddened that he is gravely ill. Forget the politics for a moment and remember that this is a man who lost three of his brothers (two whom were murdered in public)... This is a man who then took on the role of father to all of the surviving children while living a very public life. For this fact alone, he earned my respect....God Speed Senator, your in my prayers....
Whatever your politics, there's been no greater fighter for healthcare and education than Teddy Kennedy. He never holds back on working harder than anyone for what he believes in. After all his family troubles, he could have more easily chosen to just fade away from being one of the most, if not the hardest working Senator, with the best staff in Washington for last 40 years. Has never stopped working for both his constituents and all of those who need a hand up in America. My hope is for Teddy to face this toughest battle with all the energy and
strength he can, if anyone can do this, it's Ted Kennedy.
Many of us benefit from the "liberal" federal protections and programs that Senator Kennedy has championed throughout his political career. He is a true hero of the everyday American. I will keep Senator Kennedy in my prayers and wish him and his family the very best.
I'm proud to be a thoughtful, caring, working for the greater good Liberal.
I am a baby boomer who has greatly appreciated the causes the Kennedy family and you in particular have championed over generations. You have steadfastly maintained a keen eye for the underserved. You will always be tops on my list.
I too am a brain cancer survivor '93. My prayers and thoughts are with you and you family at this time Mr. Kennedy. Brain cancer and its treatments are challenging, and humbling, but no more so than life.
Have comfort in knowing the countless deserving souls who have benefited from your service to the planet.
May god bless you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, dear Sen. Kennedy. You have spent most of your life doing what you believe in. I admire you for that. I am a Conservative, but I don't think that has anything to do with our wanting the very best for all mankind. God be with you, and with your family.
I am praying for Ted and his family, this is a terrible diagnosis whomever you may be. The Kennedy's have been public servants all their lives, to lose him would be a sad loss, maybe our prayers will pull him through.
Zeke, you need to look at yourself for your insensitive comments.
I am praying for Ted and his family, this is a terrible diagnosis whomever you may be. The Kennedy's have been public servants all their lives, to lose him would be a sad loss, maybe our prayers will pull him through.
Zeke, you need to look at yourself for your insensitive comments.
As the significant other of someone who is dying of a different illness, I think that any comment that is not made with the express thought of wishing him recovery or peace is in very poor taste at this time. Politics is one thing, manners is another. Please have some manners, and think of the man's family who love him and are greatly saddened right now. They are not to blame for his real or perceived foibles.
Where has etiquette gone??? You just don't say anything if you have nothing nice to say.
I hope that if the Kennedy family reads this, they will take comfort from some of the posters kind words, and ignore the boorish comments of the others.
whiles in africa
i still knew and heard good things that hes done for his beloved country USA.
I wish him a speedy recovery
My best wishes to the Kennedy's. Hope the Senator gets a quick recovery and help President BARACK H. OBAMA as he occuppy the White house.
Senator Kennedy,
Sending heartfelt wishes and prayers from our family in Virginia to you and your family. May you 'beat the odds' and continue with work and family commitments for many years to come.
As a 52 year old arch Conservative and proud member of the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy, I wish Senator Kennedy the very best in this difficult fight. he faces. Conservatives are not heartless and soulless, we simply have a philosophy of life that differs from the Liberal view. In any case politics has no bearing here and my prayers are with Ted.
First and foremost, I wish alal the best to Mr. Kennedy and his family. Hopefully they have caught the tumour early and he can be succesfully treated.
However, I cannot help but observe that this development helps Obama.
You have the sympathy vote, especially if Kennedy visibly supports Obama in the coming weeks despite his disease. And of course, it also raises the age issue and will make voters think (once again) about McCain's age.
God Bless you Dan and your 2 1/2 year old son who are sitting a few floors below the Senator. Cancer is a terrible disease that unfortunatley affects many people. It is especially sad when it affects a poor little 2 1/2 year old boy. God Bless you and your son in this fight ahead.
I am proud of America and senator Ted Kennedy. He is a wonderful person and an absolute American herow. His many years in the senate and compassion to many proves that. He will leave to fight the tumor through our prayers and God's mercies for what he has done in this country. He is a uniter not a devider and i cannot hesitate to pray and thank God for him. Senator Ted Kennedy, we love you and always know we are with you and your family at this time and you will make it. God bless you always.
POLITICAL STUFF BE SET ASIDE!!!!!
Ted Kennedy and his family need "positive" thoughts and as those are needed in healing.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Kennedy family.
~STAY STRONG~
My prayers are with Ted and I am very saddened by this news. He has made mistakes as all of us have but he has loved and served this country, I think he should be respected and admired for that if nothing else. I hope he doesn't suffer and isn't in pain.
Best of wishes to him its not easy fighting cancer let alone see someone you love fighting cancer! My father is battling brain cancer since June 07 and he's doing good and will keep doing good he's going to beat this! I lost my grandpa(dad's dad) to brain cancer before I was even born let alone I gotta watch my dad fight it now. He's come pretty far to be doin this good...I WISH MR KENNEDY A SPEEDY RECOVERY if he has surgery, and a very very hopeful progress with the chemo and radiation which will be standard treatment of what everybody who has brain cancer gets is the standard treatment.
It's always amazing to me how many well wishers there are on both sides of the fence when bad news strikes. This is all well and good BUT, why don't most people practice what they say in times like this in their everyday life, and in dealing with all kinds of people - liberals, conservatives, rich, poor, healthy, sick - well you get the point. There is only one RULE that we all should live by and that's the GOLDEN RULE! If you don't know it, it goes something like this...."Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!" Not only when you pray in your place of worship but EVERY DAY during the week. Most of the evil things done to human beings are caused by politics, control of people and land, and greed. Will we ever progress as a human society with love and compassion for all people in order to make this planet provide the just pursuit of happiness for all human beings?
God Bless Ted Kennedy and his family - I don't agree with a lot of his political views but I am not is his shoes nor do I have the work ethic he does. I do think he cares about the causes he supports.... you cannot ask more of him.
my HUSBAND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORME GRADE 4. WITH SURGERY, CHEMO RADIATION AND NEW DRUG TEMODAR
HE ALSO HAD AVASTIN INFUSIONS 2X MONTH.
VERY TOUGH TIMES AHEAD, WISH FAMILY STRENGTH AND HOPE
MY HUSBAND SURVIVED 15 MONTHS FROM DATE OF DIAGNOSIS
CHERYL E.
Best wishes to Senator Kennedy and his family. Medical science isn't exact. I have had 2 friends with glioblastoma multiforme (level 4). One passed 14 months after he was diagnosed. The other friend is still alive and has had clear MRI's every 2 months since last August. Good luck, sir.
From what I have taken the time to read, observe and listen to, Mr. Kennedy is far from the "saint" the majority on this forum claim. Ironic too, is that when anyone disagrees with the "majority" HERE, they are called insensitive, uncaring, soul-less, depraved conservatives, ill-mannered, boorish, heartless, cruel, sick, condemning, disrespectful, heartless, uncompassionate, and I think even the "R" word was weaved in there somewhere...well, for the proud liberals who espouse SO MUCH VENON FOR CONSERVATIVES...not one "conservative" made one reference to wishing Kennedy would die, nor elated at his illness. Did that escape anyone? Apparently more was read into the comments than was actually STATED.
An illness DOES NOT ERASE indiscretions, crimes, abuses, deceit, or any of the transgressions Mr. Kennedy is indeed guilty of. My political views are 180 degrees from his, yet, odd as it may seem, I don't wish his demise either. Funny how that works out, isn't it? My choice would be that all members in congress HAD THE DECENCY TO BE 100% HONORABLE, HONEST AND WORK FOR AMERICA AS IS THEIR OATH AND DUTY. Simple as that, nothing more, nothing less - both parties are corrupt. And every AMERICAN should expect and demand nothing less from every member. Remove the blinders, open your eyes, listen and educate yourselves - read the U.S. CONSTITUTION and you'll find just how corrupt the politicians truly are and how they've subverted justice and the American dream of self-reliance, pride and duty to our country and our people. I wish Kennedy no ill - but no saint is he.
I recall such vitriol from liberals when, let's see, who was that?....oh, yes, none other than President Ronald Reagan was diagnosed with Alzheimers. Anyone care to comment against THAT? Unlikely, I'm sure, because he was conservative. How sad and cruel were the remarks about him? He and HIS family suffered through 10 years of that horrific disease, but I didn't see any COMPASSION expressed by the PROUD LIBERALS. Guess that's different though, huh? Yeah, not so much.
My husband is being treated for this exact cancer at Mass general. He's NINE years post diagnosis and doing darn well... drives works and functions better than MANY! Teddy can be one of the MANY who beat this as well. God speed to the family and to him!
My prayers and thoughts to Senator Kennedy and his family along. No matter