Obama’s presence at Wesleyan University was bitter-sweet. As I blogged before, I was lucky enough to have my 5 year Wesleyan University Reunion on the same weekend that Obama was the Commencement speaker. Although we were all excited to have a potential future president address our school, we were saddened by the circumstances that brought him to Wes: Ted Kennedy had been slated to deliver the speech, and asked Obama to speak in his stead. Kennedy’s connection with Wesleyan is strong: Kennedy’s ties to Wesleyan include his son, Edward Jr. ‘83, who will be celebrating his 25th reunion this year, and step-daughter Caroline Raclin ‘08, who will be receiving her bachelor of arts degree at the ceremonies. Kennedy himself received an honorary doctorate from Wesleyan in 1984. Obama was humbled by Kennedy’s request, saying

I have the distinct honor today of pinch-hitting for one of my personal heroes and a hero to this country, Senator Edward Kennedy. Teddy wanted to be here very much, but as you know, he’s had a very long week and is taking some much-needed rest. He called me up a few days ago and I said that I’d be happy to be his stand-in, even if there was no way I could fill his shoes.

We were lucky enough to hear the words of both Obama and Kennedy. Obama explained that though he couldn’t feel Kennedy’s shoes

I did, however, get the chance to glance at the speech he planned on delivering today, and I’d like to start by passing along a message from him: “To all those praying for my return to good health, I offer my heartfelt thanks. And to any who’d rather have a different result, I say, don’t get your hopes up just yet!”So we know that Ted Kennedy’s legendary sense of humor is as strong as ever, and I have no doubt that his equally legendary fighting spirit will carry him through this latest challenge. He is our friend, he is our champion, and we hope and pray for his return to good health.

It’s hard not to be inspired by this champion. But don’t just pray for his good Kennedy’s good health. by visiting the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) where you can find great take action links to fight cancer!

Previously:

• Ted Kennedy’s Malignant Tumor: Sad News, But The Work Goes On
• Obama Spoke To Me (At Wesleyan, My Alma Mater)
• Senator Ted Kennedy Diagnosed With Malignant Brain Tumor