Reaction To Elizabeth Edwards Death

Reaction to the death of Elizabeth Edwards came quickly from the world of politics, with the White House releasing this statement from the president:

"Michelle and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Elizabeth Edwards. This afternoon I spoke to Cate Edwards and John Edwards, and offered our family’s condolences. I came to know and admire Elizabeth over the course of the presidential campaign. She was a tenacious advocate for fixing our health care system and fighting poverty, and our country has benefited from the voice she gave to the cause of building a society that lifts up all those left behind."

"In her life, Elizabeth Edwards knew tragedy and pain. Many others would have turned inward; many others in the face of such adversity would have given up. But through all that she endured, Elizabeth revealed a kind of fortitude and grace that will long remain a source of inspiration. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends."

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, one of John Edwards' rivals for the Democratic nomination in 2008, released this statement:

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Elizabeth Edwards. America has lost a passionate advocate for building a more humane and just society, for reforming our health care system, and for finding a cure for cancer once and for all. But the Edwards family and her legion of friends have lost so much more — a loving mother, constant guardian, and wise counselor. Our thoughts are with the Edwards family at this time, and with all those people across the country who met Elizabeth over the years and found an instant friend—someone who shared their experiences and offered empathy, understanding and hope. She made her mark on America, and she will not be forgotten."

The AP quoted Vice President Joe Biden as saying:

"[Edwards] fought a brave battle against a terrible, ravaging disease that takes too many lives every day. She was an inspiration to all who knew her, and to those who felt they knew her."

The AP also quoted former Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry describing Elizabeth Edwards as "an incredibly loving, giving and devoted mother" who fought cancer with "enormous grace and dignity."

In a statement, Susan G. Komen For The Cure called Edwards "an inspiration to countless women, through her willingness to publicly share her battle with breast cancer, and in her service to end disparities and fight for quality health care for all."


source:http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2010/12/07/131887248/reaction-to-the-news-of-elizabeth-edwards-death