Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, has announced a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive form of cancer. Schlossberg, 35, stated that doctors have indicated a prognosis of less than a year.
The climate journalist, and daughter of former U.S. Ambassador Caroline Kennedy, shared the news in an essay titled "A Battle With My Blood," published in The New Yorker on Saturday. The diagnosis occurred in May 2024, following the birth of her second child.
Health and Prognosis
Prior to her diagnosis, Schlossberg described an active lifestyle including running, skiing, and participation in a fundraising swim for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in New York's Hudson River.
Despite receiving treatments, including a bone marrow transplant and chemotherapy, she indicated that medical professionals have provided a challenging outlook. She quoted her doctor, stating, "he could keep me alive for a year, maybe."
Schlossberg has two children, a son born in 2022 and a daughter born in 2024. She expressed concern about her children's potential memory of her. She also reflected on the potential impact of her death on her mother, Caroline Kennedy, who served as U.S. Ambassador to Australia and Japan.
Political Context
Schlossberg has publicly expressed opposition to her second cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., regarding a proposed position as U.S. health secretary under President Donald Trump. In her essay, she noted observing his confirmation for the role from her hospital bed, raising concerns given his lack of prior experience in medicine, public health, or government. She also stated that she perceived the healthcare system she relied upon as feeling strained.
The Kennedy family maintains a notable history of involvement in U.S. politics, alongside instances of personal tragedy among its members. Schlossberg's uncle, John F. Kennedy Jr., died at age 38, and her grandmother, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, died of cancer.
Earlier this month, Schlossberg's brother, Jack Schlossberg, announced his intention to run for Congress in New York. He shared her essay online, remarking, "Life is short - let it rip."