Statement from the NIH Director regarding Senator Kennedy

“This morning we learned the extremely sad news that one of our heroes, Senator Edward Kennedy, died after his battle with brain cancer. We are deeply grieved by his death, and our hearts go out to his wife, Vicki, his children, extended family and friends. Senator Kennedy was an amazing man — a genuine force of nature. His deep compassion for those in need, and his commitment to improving people’s health, are reflected in the innumerable legislative acts that he championed throughout his long, distinguished career in the Senate. He was one of the strongest, most effective advocates for biomedical research. I know I speak for everyone at NIH when I say that we lost one of our closest, dearest friends. Personally, I am grateful to have had many opportunities to meet and work with Senator Kennedy over the years. I witnessed firsthand his supreme intellect, lightning-speed wit and sense of humor, and unwavering focus on doing what is right for the American people. We will miss him terribly.”

Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D.
Director, National Institutes of Health