Patrick Bouvier Kennedy

== Patrick Bouvier Kennedy ==

Patrick Bouvier Kennedy was the infant son of President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. He was born prematurely on August 7, 1963, and died two days later on August 9, 1963, due to complications from hyaline membrane disease, now known as infant respiratory distress syndrome.

Early Life

Patrick Bouvier Kennedy was born at Otis Air National Guard Base in Massachusetts. He was the fourth child of John and Jacqueline Kennedy, following Arabella Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, and John F. Kennedy Jr.. His birth was a significant event for the Kennedy family, as they had previously experienced the loss of a stillborn daughter, Arabella, in 1956.

Medical Condition

At the time of Patrick's birth, hyaline membrane disease was a common cause of death in premature infants. The condition is characterized by a lack of surfactant in the lungs, which leads to difficulty in breathing. Despite receiving the best medical care available at the time, including treatment in a hyperbaric chamber, Patrick's condition did not improve.

Death and Funeral

Patrick Bouvier Kennedy passed away on August 9, 1963, at Boston Children's Hospital. His death was a profound loss for the Kennedy family and the nation, as it occurred during his father's presidency. Patrick was buried in Holyhood Cemetery in Brookline, Massachusetts, but his remains were later moved to Arlington National Cemetery to be interred with his father after President Kennedy's assassination in November 1963.

Legacy

Patrick's brief life and tragic death highlighted the challenges of premature birth and respiratory distress syndrome. His passing also brought attention to the need for advancements in neonatal care. In the years following his death, significant progress was made in the treatment of premature infants, including the development of artificial surfactant therapy.

Related Pages

• John F. Kennedy
• Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
• John F. Kennedy Jr.
• Caroline Kennedy
• Arlington National Cemetery