CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Cecile Richards, a national leader for abortion access and women’s rights who led Planned Parenthood for 12 tumultuous years, has died. She was 67.
Richards died Monday at home “surrounded by family and her ever-loyal dog, Ollie,” her family said in a statement.
“Our hearts are broken today but no words can do justice to the joy she brought to our lives,” the family said.
FILE – Cecile Richards, former President of Planned Parenthood and daughter of the late Texas Gov. Ann Richards, speaks during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Aug. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley, File)
Richards, the daughter of the late Texas Gov. Ann Richards, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in 2023, five years after
she left Planned Parenthood.Though Planned Parenthood also provides birth control, cancer screenings and testing for sexually transmitted diseases at clinics nationwide, its status as the nation’s leading abortion provider has long made it a lightning rod for debate. Richards played a prominent role in pushing back against criticism during her tenure as president and beyond.
