Kitty Dukakis, the former first lady of Massachusetts and the wife of 1988 Democratic presidential nominee Michael Dukakis, has passed away at the age of 88. According to her son, John Dukakis, Kitty died on Friday, March 21, with her family by her side. The cause of her death was reported to be complications from dementia. Throughout her life, Kitty was known for her advocacy on mental health and addiction issues, making a lasting impact on those she encountered.
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Kitty Dukakis, born Katherine Dickson on December 26, 1936, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, came from a Jewish family and had a diverse educational background. After a brief stint at Pennsylvania State University and a short-lived marriage to John Chaffetz Sr., Kitty met Michael Dukakis, who she would later marry in 1963. The couple had three children together – John Jr., Andrea, and Kara. Kitty pursued her education further, earning two master’s degrees from Boston University, one in broadcast and film and another in social work.
As a social worker, Kitty Dukakis was actively involved in various humanitarian initiatives. She served on the board of directors for the Refugee Policy Group and Refugees International, and was appointed by President Jimmy Carter to his commission on the Holocaust. She was also a founding member of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, which opened its doors in 1993. Kitty’s dedication to social causes and her commitment to helping others in need left a lasting legacy in various communities.
In 1990, Kitty Dukakis bravely shared her personal struggles with alcoholism and mental health issues in her memoir “Now You Know.” The book candidly discussed her battle with depression and her use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a treatment. Kitty later co-authored another book titled “Shock: The Healing Power of Electroconvulsive Therapy” in 2006, aiming to destigmatize ECT and promote its benefits in treating severe depression. Through her advocacy work, Kitty aimed to inspire others to seek help and treatment for mental health challenges.
Following Michael Dukakis’s unsuccessful presidential bid in 1988, Kitty faced public battles with depression and alcoholism. Her openness about her struggles helped reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encouraged dialogue on seeking proper treatment. Together with Michael, she advocated for the effectiveness of ECT in treating severe depression, emphasizing the importance of living a fulfilling life beyond mere remission.
Kitty Dukakis leaves behind a legacy of resilience and advocacy for mental health. Her contributions to various social causes and her unwavering support for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues have left an indelible mark on those who knew her. As her family mourns her passing, Kitty’s courage and dedication to helping others will continue to inspire many in the years to come.