A new forever postage stamp featuring former U.S. First Lady Betty Ford was revealed at the White House on Wednesday. The stamp showcases Ford's portrait and pays tribute to her impactful legacy.
The unveiling event highlighted Ford's resilience and dedication to helping others overcome challenges. Known for her advocacy for women's health and breast cancer awareness, Ford bravely shared her own battle with breast cancer in 1974. Additionally, she courageously addressed her struggles with prescription medication and alcohol addiction, leading to the establishment of treatment centers nationwide.
Attendees at the stamp unveiling included First Lady Jill Biden, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, Ford's daughter Susan Ford Bales, and Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation President Joseph Lee. They praised Ford's contributions to women's health and addiction treatment, emphasizing her ability to turn personal hardships into opportunities for growth and support.
Biden commended Ford for showing that individuals are defined by their resilience and ability to find purpose in life's challenges. Bales highlighted her mother's belief in seeking treatment as a pathway to renewal, rather than a sign of weakness. Lee described Ford as a 'national treasure' for transforming shame and isolation into dignity and community for those struggling with illness and addiction.
The Betty Ford stamp will be available for purchase starting April 5, with a dedication ceremony planned at Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage, California. Ford becomes the seventh First Lady to be honored with a U.S. postage stamp, commemorating her enduring impact on women's health and addiction treatment in America.
