Doctors Tell Elizabeth Edwards She Has Weeks to Live [UPDATE: She's Dead]

Elizabeth Edwards, the estranged wife of former presidential candidate and philanderer John Edwards, has taken a turn for the worse in her battle against cancer.

According to reports, Elizabeth's doctors informed her that they can no longer do anything for her, as the treatment she has been receiving would be unproductive. Elizabeth, 61, who has was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2004, was briefly hospitalized last week and received treatment, but doctors have now told her that she may only have up to a few weeks left to live. A family friend said Elizabeth is not in pain and in good spirits despite the seriousness of her condition.

This goodbye message was posted on Elizabeth's Facebook page today:

STATEMENT FROM THE EDWARDS FAMILY
Elizabeth has been advised by her doctors that further treatment of her cancer would be unproductive. She is resting at home with family and friends and has posted this message to friends on her Facebook page. You all know that I have been sustained throughout my life by three saving graces – my family, my friends, and a faith in the power of resilience and hope. These graces have carried me through difficult times and they have brought more joy to the good times than I ever could have imagined. The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. We know that. And, yes, there are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human. But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. And for that I am grateful. It isn’t possible to put into words the love and gratitude I feel to everyone who has and continues to support and inspire me every day. To you I simply say: you know.
With love,
Elizabeth

Update, Dec 7: Elizabeth lost her battle with cancer this afternoon. The family announced that she died this afternoon with her family around her

The family issued this statement:

Elizabeth Anania Edwards, mother, author, advocate died today at her home in Chapel Hill, surrounded by her family.

Today we have lost the comfort of Elizabeth's presence but she remains the heart of this family. We love her and will never know anyone more inspiring or full of life.

On behalf of Elizabeth we want to express our gratitude to the thousands of kindred spirits who moved and inspired her along the way. Your support and prayers touched our entire family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wade Edwards Foundation which benefits the Wade Edwards Learning Lab at www.wade.org.

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