Tatiana Schlossberg, the granddaughter of former President John F. Kennedy and daughter of Caroline Kennedy, has died at the age of 35 after a battle with acute myeloid leukemia. Her family confirmed her passing, which follows her revelation of a terminal diagnosis in an essay published in The New Yorker last month. Schlossberg’s struggle with the disease began shortly after the birth of her second child in May 2024.
In her poignant essay, Schlossberg shared details of her diagnosis, describing it as a “rare mutation” of the disease. She reflected on the gravity of her situation, stating, “During the latest clinical trial, my doctor told me that he could keep me alive for a year, maybe.” Her thoughts turned immediately to her children, expressing deep concern about their memories of her. “My kids, whose faces live permanently on the inside of my eyelids, wouldn’t remember me,” she wrote.
Reflections on Motherhood and Mortality
Schlossberg’s writing illustrated the challenges of motherhood in the face of illness. She lamented missed moments with her daughter, noting that she could not engage in basic care due to the risk of infection following her treatments. “I was gone for almost half of her first year of life,” she wrote, questioning the identity her daughter would have of her. She expressed a profound desire to hold on to memories, stating, “So many of them are from my childhood that I feel as if I’m watching myself and my kids grow up at the same time.”
Her reflections conveyed a struggle between the desire to be present and the harsh reality of her situation. Schlossberg acknowledged the limitations imposed by her illness but also highlighted the importance of cherishing each memory. She admitted to pretending she would remember everything, despite the inevitability of forgetting.
A Legacy Remembered
Tatiana Schlossberg leaves behind her husband, George Moran, and their young son and daughter. She is also survived by her parents, Caroline Kennedy and Ed Schlossberg, and her siblings, Rose and Jack Schlossberg. The family announced her passing with a brief note on the Instagram account of the JFK Library Foundation.
Schlossberg’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and condolences from across the nation, reflecting her impact as an environmental journalist and author. Her commitment to raising awareness about climate issues resonated with many, and her personal story has sparked conversations about the intersections of health, motherhood, and legacy.
As the family mourns their loss, Tatiana Schlossberg’s words and her fight against cancer will likely continue to inspire those who followed her journey. The world has lost a passionate advocate and a loving mother, whose legacy will endure through her children and her impactful writings.