Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy, has publicly condemned her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., regarding his recent actions as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. In a poignant essay published in the New Yorker on November 12, Schlossberg disclosed her battle with acute myeloid leukemia, a serious form of blood cancer, diagnosed shortly after the birth of her daughter in May 2024.
Concerns Over Health Policy Changes
Schlossberg expressed deep concern about the impact of her cousin’s policy decisions on cancer research and patient care. She highlighted significant funding cuts instituted by Kennedy that jeopardize crucial medical research. Kennedy confirmed a restructuring plan that would eliminate 20,000 full-time positions and reduce the budget for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from $127.6 billion in 2025 to $94.7 billion in 2026.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s reorganization plan aimed to save taxpayers $1.8 billion annually.
- Despite some reinstated grants, over 2,600 NIH grants remain affected by funding cuts.
Health Care System Strain
Schlossberg pointed out that her treatment was complicated by a stressed health care system. She noted that at Columbia University, where she initially received treatment, research efforts faced uncertainty due to federal funding cuts. In May, the university had to lay off 180 researchers.
“As I observed the efforts of doctors dedicated to improving patients’ lives, I became increasingly aware of the detrimental effects of Bobby’s policies,” she wrote.
Personal Battle with Cancer
At just 34 years old, Schlossberg’s diagnosis came as a devastating shock. She underwent two bone marrow transplants and joined a clinical trial for CAR T-cell therapy to combat her leukemia.
Impact of Policy Decisions
Schlossberg was particularly troubled by the potential implications of Kennedy’s decisions on ongoing research projects, including trials vital for patients like herself. She questioned how funding slashes could cripple advancements in leukemia treatment at reputable institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
- She described her expectations of only having about one year to live.
- Her thoughts often turned to her children, pondering how they would remember her.
Political Context and Family Division
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his skepticism of vaccines and his controversial positions on public health, has faced criticism from his own family. Many of his relatives have supported President Joe Biden and criticized Kennedy’s alignment with Donald Trump and controversial health policies.
Schlossberg noted, “My mother attempted to halt his confirmation; my brother has voiced concerns for months.” Her condemnation of Kennedy’s actions reflects a broader family rift regarding public health policy and political affiliations.
Medical and Ethical Dilemmas
Schlossberg described a harrowing experience during her treatment, where the availability of life-saving medication could have been compromised due to undue regulatory scrutiny directed by Kennedy. She emphasized the critical need for accessible health care solutions for all patients.
Tatiana Schlossberg’s powerful essay sheds light on the intersecting issues of health policy, personal struggle, and family loyalty, drawing attention to the vast implications of leadership actions in the health sector.
