"Any time, any place, Elizabeth needs me to be there, I will be there."
Those were the words from Senator John Edwards, at a joint press conference with his wife, Elizabeth this afternoon. Despite the return of his wife’s cancer, Sen. Edwards says his bid for the presidency "goes on strongly."
I have to admit that I was a bit shocked at the announcement. This couple is dealing with a life and death situation. She is literally facing this cancer (now bone cancer) head-on, after a bout with breast cancer. I am all for conquering crisis and using is at fuel for transformation, but I wonder what kind of message this sends to his constituency. It’s either an amazing public relations move, or an infusion of radical truth and humanity into a presidential campaign that just might benefit from the realness of this fearless couple.
Wouldn’t it be just mind boggling if it is indeed the later. I believe that the Edwards are exposing their strength, fortitude and even faith in a public way that can be a great example for others. But how will voters respond? Will they be more concerned with a candidate that might take a hike if his wife’s condition worsens… or will they be moved to passionately support the couple?
In an era where the almighty dollar often rules the road of the campaign success, it’ll be a fascinating commentary on the will of the people. Sen. Edwards can stand up in strength for what he believes in, with his wife at his side most of the time. But will the campaign dollars be pulled in fear that the personal challenge might just be too much?
Such a display of strength might just move the masses. If this couple can conquer such personal issues with grace, one wonders if this might boster views of his strength as a democratic candidate.
