A Kennedy's Fight Against Time: Tatiana's Battle with Cancer

By Tatiana Schlossberg

At just 35 years old, I've been given a devastating diagnosis: less than a year to live. This news came shortly after welcoming my second child, a beautiful baby girl, in May 2024.

A Shocking Diagnosis

It all started with an unusual white blood cell count, leading to a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia with a rare mutation called Inversion 3. The journey since then has been overwhelming, to say the least.

Family Tragedy

As a member of the Kennedy family, we've faced our share of tragedies. The assassination of my grandfather, President John F. Kennedy, the deaths of my uncle, Bobby Kennedy, and my brother, John F. Kennedy Jr. But this personal battle feels different, more intimate, and perhaps even more devastating.

Clinical Trials and Uncertainty

Despite undergoing several clinical trials and two transplants, the prognosis remains grim. My doctors have told me they can only keep me alive for about a year. It's a harsh reality to face, especially as a mother of two young children.

Reflections and Regrets

I've spent countless hours reflecting on my life, my family, and the memories I'll leave behind. The guilt of leaving my children without their mother is overwhelming. I worry about the impact this will have on them and the pain it will bring to my husband, Dr. George Moran, whom I've been married to since 2017.

Family Disappointment

I can't help but touch on the dismay my family feels over the actions of my cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as Secretary of Health and Human Services. His decisions have affected research and funding for critical health initiatives, including mRNA vaccines and the National Institutes of Health.

Living in the Moment

In my essay, I've focused on the importance of living in the moment and creating lasting memories with my loved ones. My husband is a kind, funny, and handsome genius, and I'm grateful for the time we've had together. Despite the pain and uncertainty, I try to fill my days with love and memories that I hope will stay with me forever.