8 things you didn't know about Barbara Bush

(KPRC)

HOUSTON – Barbara Bush was a beloved, admired and well-respected woman. With 92 years of life under her belt, it's not surprising she accomplished a lot and dealt with many trials.

As such, there are many things you likely don't know about the former first lady.

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1. She's a descendant of the 14th president

Bush's father, Marvin Pierce, was a distant relative of Franklin Pierce, the 14th president of the United States.

2. Her mother died in a car crash

Her parents were involved in a crash in which her mother died. Because she was pregnant, Bush was advised not to travel to the funeral and says the event left a lasting scar on her.

3. Her daughter died at 3 years old

She lost a daughter, Robin, 3, to leukemia in 1953.

4. Her hair prematurely grayed

Barbara's reddish-brown hair turned prematurely white after dealing with the deaths of her mother and daughter.

5. She was a wife and mother to presidents

She was only one of two women to be both a wife and a mother to a president of the United States.

6. Dyslexia fueled her literacy campaigns

Bush's interest in the importance of literacy has been inspired by her son's dyslexia.

7. She suffered from Grave's disease

She had Grave's disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid to malfunction. The condition meant Barbara has often dealt with red and puffy eyes. She went through radiation treatments to lessen the effects of the disease.

8. She dealt with depression

Bush said she developed a greater understanding and compassion for mental health issues after falling into and dealing with depression.

Sources: whitehouse.gov, biography.com


About the Author:

Dawn Jorgenson, Graham Media Group Branded Content Managing Editor, began working with the group in April 2013. She graduated from Texas State University with a degree in electronic media.