Rosemary Kennedy

Rosemary Kennedy at Court

Rose Marie "Rosemary" Kennedy (September 13, 1918 – January 7, 2005) was the third child and first daughter of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. She was a member of the Kennedy family, an influential American family known for their political and public service contributions.

Early Life

Rosemary Kennedy was born in Brookline, Massachusetts. She was the sister of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, and Robert F. Kennedy, a U.S. Senator and Attorney General. From an early age, Rosemary exhibited developmental delays and learning difficulties, which were later attributed to a lack of oxygen at birth.

Education and Challenges

Rosemary attended several private schools and special education programs. Despite her family's efforts, she struggled academically and socially. Her condition was a source of concern for the Kennedy family, who sought various treatments and interventions.

Lobotomy and Later Life

In 1941, at the age of 23, Rosemary underwent a prefrontal lobotomy, a procedure that was intended to alleviate her mood swings and perceived behavioral issues. The operation, however, resulted in a significant cognitive and physical decline. Following the lobotomy, Rosemary was institutionalized for the remainder of her life, primarily residing at the St. Coletta School for Exceptional Children in Jefferson, Wisconsin.

Legacy

Rosemary Kennedy's life had a profound impact on her family. Her sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founded the Special Olympics in 1968, inspired by Rosemary's challenges and the need for better support for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Kennedy family has continued to advocate for disability rights and mental health awareness.

Death

Rosemary Kennedy passed away from natural causes on January 7, 2005, at the age of 86. She is buried at the Holyhood Cemetery in Brookline, Massachusetts.

See Also

• Kennedy family
• John F. Kennedy
• Eunice Kennedy Shriver
• Special Olympics
• Lobotomy