As anticipated, John and Elizabeth Edwards announced yesterday that her cancer had returned. During the press conference, they -- and especially Elizabeth -- appeared strong, optimistic and at peace. Reporters asked if John Edwards would continue in his presidential bid and he said, without a doubt "yes."
And of course, political pundits are going there. As SF Chronicle columnist CW Nevius writes today, "You wouldn't think having cancer would be controversial." He adds, "Some radio talk show hosts speculated that the
move was "political,'' and Internet bloggers and commentators basically accused
Edwards of using his wife's illness for a political boost."
Seriously folks. These two people have survived the death of their son. They survived Elizabeth's first battle with breast cancer. Some couples wouldn't have even lasted the first challenge. But this husband and wife, this family, is as tight as a steel vault. As CityMama pointed out yesterday, Elizabeth Edwards is a fighter. And if you met her for two minutes, or read her book, you'd never question for a second this decision to move forward with their lives.
The world has never stopped for them. It only moves forward. And so will they.
That's not political. That's courage.
