Breaking News: Obama’s Grandmother Dies

Oh no!

Well, this is truly sad news, for many reasons. Barack Obama's ailing grandmother, Madelyn "Toot" Dunham, died today. She was 86.

With just one day to go in this huge, huge election, Obama's sister Maya Soetoro-Ng announced the news.

Condolences, of course, to the Obama family. We're also shaking our heads that she won't get to find out just how far her grandson could go. Though, maybe she knew something the rest of us won't quite yet.

Here's a statement from Soetoro-Ng:

"It is with great sadness that we announce that our grandmother,
Madelyn Dunham, has died peacefully after a battle with cancer.  She
was the cornerstone of our family, and a woman of extraordinary
accomplishment, strength, and humility.  She was the person who
encouraged and allowed us to take chances.  She was proud of her
grandchildren and great-grandchildren and left this world with the
knowledge that her impact on all of us was meaningful and enduring. 
Our debt to her is beyond measure. 

"Our family wants to thank all of those who sent flowers, cards,
well-wishes, and prayers during this difficult time.  It brought our
grandmother and us great comfort.  Our grandmother was a private woman,
and we will respect her wish for a small private ceremony to be held at
a later date.   In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation to
any worthy organization in search of a cure for cancer."

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