Thanks again, Betty Ford!

Claire_in_Seattle

So sad to hear the news of Betty Ford's death earlier today.  I remember so well when she had surgery.  All was so secretive until she spoke out.  I am so glad that finally women were encouraged to get mammograms.

She was an amazing and courageous lady and paved the way for many of us.  I will miss her.

She lived almost 40 years from the time of her surgery, so that says something too.

Wabbit

Betty Ford is probably my favorite First Lady ever.  She deserves a lot of credit for bringing breast cancer out of the closet.  It just was not spoken of in those days.  Her candor and openness paved the way for others to follow her example.

Then she did the same for alcohol and prescription drug addiction issues.

She was wonderfully honest and confident enough to say what she thought and tell it like it was no matter what the subject.

A life well lived.    

AnnNYC

I loved Betty Ford.  A life well lived is so true, WR.  She really made a huge difference in the world, and so many of us are so much better off for it.

Some great quotes from her in this story:
http://lubbockonline.com/national-news/2011-07-08/former-first-lady-betty-ford-dies-93

And she was a Martha Graham dancer!

With Martha Graham Company (Betty Bloomer, far left):

With Judith Jamison (Alvin Ailey Dance Theater):

and on a state visit to China as First Lady:

dlb823

I also loved and admired Betty Ford.  I was fortunate to meet her when we lived in Vail, and several years later here in the Rancho Mirage area.  She was as gracious and genuine as they come!

Thanks for this thread, Claire.  I didn't know about her dance career, and it's wonderful to see those pictures of her, Ann.    Deanna

sflow

The world has lost a remarkable woman!  She has left us a great legacy.