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Last week long-time U.S. ambassador Richard Holbrooke suffered an aortic dissection–a tear in the aorta that can lead to stroke, heart attack, or abdominal complications. Half of patients who experience this event, which fortunately is rare, never make it to the hospital. Holbrooke made it to the hospital, but died within days at age 69. My Mother passed away a year and a half ago from the same complications, so I knew when I heard about his situation that he had a real uphill fight.
He was probably the most respected U.S. diplomat in the forefront of American’s foreign policy. I had the chance to talk with him several months ago in Washington, and found him engaging, blunt, and confidently knowledgeable about the world of foreign affairs. He knew my daughter and son-in-law from New York, and was quite gracious in his praise. A class guy that died way too young, and who America will greatly miss.