I am terribly saddened to hear of the death of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. My heart goes out to this family that has lost an amazing and much-adored mother, sister, spouse, aunt, grandmother, cousin and friend. Those of us who advocate on behalf of the special needs community have lost yet another remarkable leader, who was and will remain, an inspiration and example. Her work will continue.


Eunice Kennedy Shriver was also the ultimate special needs sib. Her ground-breaking and passionate work was fueled by her love for and dedication to her sister Rosemary, who had an intellectual disability.

How will you help keep Ms. Shriver’s legacy and compassion alive? Much work remains.

Read the Shriver family statement here.

Photo Judy Winter