Former Texas Governor Ann Richards announced today she has been diagnosed
with cancer of the esophagus and will be undergoing treatment at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Richards,
72, was the 45th Texas governor, a Democrat serving from 1991 to 1995. She rose to nationwide fame as the keynote
speaker at the 1988 Democratic National Convention with the line referring to George H.W. Bush, "Poor George, he
can't help it...He was born with a silver foot in his mouth." The risks for cancer of the esophagus are far greater for heavy drinkers and smokers. Richards once stated, "I smoked like a chimney and drank like a fish,'' when she sought treatment for alcoholism in 1980.
"Ann Richards holds a special place in Texas history," said Gov. Rick Perry. ''Anita and I join Texans across the state in sending our prayers and best wishes." We wish her all the best too, and a speedy recovery.
