July 8, 2016 (Friday)
Today is the anniversary of Betty Ford’s death. She died in 2011 at the age of 93. She was “First Lady” of the United States from 1974-1977, the years of her husband’s presidency. Her husband is remembered as having spent his time as president in restoring dignity and pride in the office of president, but Betty was known for her interest in promoting causes she deemed important.
In the years following her years as First Lady, it became known that she had an addiction problem. Her family confronted her, and she received treatment. After being freed from the addictions, she founded Betty Ford Center in La Mirage, California, an institution that follows the 12-step approach made famous by Alcoholics Anonymous. Many people have been helped through this institution.
She received many honors and awards. Click here to see a list. In 1991 she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President G.H.W. Bush.
First Lady Barbara Bush commented in her memoirs, that Mrs. Ford, after discovering she was dependent on drugs, “transformed her pain into something great for the common good. Because she suffered, there will be more healing. Because of her grief, there will be more joy.”
Mrs. Bush’s words echo Romans 8:28, which encourages us all: “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”