Tatiana Schlossberg, the granddaughter of former US President John F. Kennedy, tragically passed away on Tuesday at the young age of 35. This heartbreaking news comes just weeks after she publicly announced her battle with terminal cancer. In a heartfelt statement shared on the social media accounts of the JFK Library Foundation, her family expressed their sorrow, saying, "Our beautiful Tatiana passed away this morning. She will always be in our hearts."
The late journalist bravely shared her health struggles in an essay published in The New Yorker last November, revealing her diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia. This rare and aggressive form of cancer typically affects individuals over the age of 60. Schlossberg's condition was first detected after she gave birth to her second child in May 2024, when doctors noted an alarmingly high white blood cell count, a key indicator of her illness.
In her candid essay, Schlossberg reflected on her prognosis, stating, "During the latest clinical trial, my doctor told me that he could keep me alive for a year, maybe. My first thought was that my kids, whose faces live permanently on the inside of my eyelids, wouldn't remember me." This poignant sentiment highlights the emotional weight of her diagnosis and the impact it had on her family.
Tatiana Schlossberg was not only a devoted mother but also a respected environmental journalist. She contributed to various prominent publications, including The Atlantic and Vanity Fair. In 2019, she authored the award-winning book, Inconspicuous Consumption: The Environmental Impact You Don't Know You Have, which shed light on the often-overlooked consequences of consumer habits on the environment. Her work has left an indelible mark on the field of environmental journalism.
Schlossberg is survived by her loving husband, George Moran, and their two young children. Her legacy as a journalist and a mother will continue to inspire many. The outpouring of grief from her family and friends underscores the impact she had on those around her.
In addition to her work, Tatiana Schlossberg was vocal about her views on family politics. She publicly denounced her relative, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was recently nominated by former President Donald Trump for the position of health secretary. Schlossberg expressed her concerns while reflecting on her time in the hospital, stating, "I watched from my hospital bed as Bobby, in the face of logic and common sense, was confirmed for the position, despite never having worked in medicine, public health, or the government."
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a former Democrat turned Trump supporter, has faced significant criticism for promoting vaccine conspiracy theories and misinformation. Schlossberg's mother, Caroline Kennedy, also opposed her cousin's nomination, writing to US senators urging them to vote against him, describing him as a "predator who is addicted to power."
Tatiana Schlossberg's passing is a profound loss not only to her family but also to the world of journalism and environmental advocacy. Her courageous battle with cancer and her dedication to impactful storytelling will be remembered by many. As we reflect on her contributions, we honor her legacy and the values she stood for.