[Cecile Richards, a women’s rights crusader and former president of Planned Parenthood, has died at the age of 67. Richards died at home surrounded by her family and her dog, Ollie, just hours before President-elect Donald Trump was sworn in to a second term.
Richards served as president of Planned Parenthood from 2006 to 2018, helping to boost the profile of the organization and increase access to reproductive health care services. She was a vocal advocate for women’s rights and reproductive freedom, and was a leading figure in the fight against anti-abortion legislation.
Richards was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive type of brain cancer, last year and had been receiving treatment. She had spoken publicly about her battle with the disease, saying that she was grateful to have access to high-quality healthcare.
Richards’ family released a statement saying that they were “grateful to the doctors and health care workers who provided her excellent care and the friends, family, and well-wishers who have been by her side during this challenging time.”
Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund released a statement saying that they were “heartbroken to lose a giant in the fight for reproductive freedom.” They praised Richards’ leadership and commitment to the organization, saying that she had brought Planned Parenthood to “new heights” during her 12 years as president.
President Joe Biden honored Richards, calling her a “leader of utmost character” and saying that she had “fought for the dignity of workers, defended and advanced women’s reproductive rights and equality.” Biden awarded Richards the Presidential Medal of Freedom in a private ceremony in November.
Richards’ legacy will be remembered through her work as a champion of women’s rights and reproductive freedom. She will be deeply missed by those who knew her and worked with her to advance these causes.
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