Betty Ford scares up the President’s chair-
Here’s a glimpse of White House Halloween antics from 1974. Betty Ford and her personal assistant, Nancy Howe, dress a skeleton in President Ford’s study.
-from the Ford Library
“Condolences began pouring in soon after news broke about the death of Betty Ford, the widow of late President Gerald Ford and a co-founder of an eponymous addiction center in California. Here are some of those comments:
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA
Throughout her long and active life, Elizabeth Anne Ford distinguished herself through her courage and compassion. As our nation’s First Lady, she was a powerful advocate for women’s health and women’s rights. After leaving the White House, Mrs. Ford helped reduce the social stigma surrounding addiction and inspired thousands to seek much-needed treatment. While her death is a cause for sadness, we know that organizations such as the Betty Ford Center will honor her legacy by giving countless Americans a new lease on life.
Today, we take comfort in the knowledge that Betty and her husband, former President Gerald Ford, are together once more. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to their children, Michael, John, Steven, and Susan.”
World leaders and friends of the former first lady react to Betty Ford’s death
Continue reading… CNN
“A month after moving into the White House, Betty Ford was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a mastectomy. She became an advocate for breast cancer research and early detection. Asked about her illness, she said, “I’m very glad that I brought cancer to the forefront.” She was also outspoken on women’s rights issues. She supported the equal rights amendment and the legalization of abortion. She became famous for her candor. In an interview on CBS’ “60 Minutes,” she talked about marijuana, equal rights for women, abortion and the possibility of a premarital affair for her daughter, Susan.”
(via apsies)
