Cecile Richards, a pivotal figure in the fight for abortion rights and former president of Planned Parenthood, passed away at the age of 67, her family announced.

Richards died on January 20, 2025, at home, surrounded by her family and her loyal dog, Ollie. In a statement, her family expressed, “Our hearts are broken today but no words can do justice to the joy she brought to our lives.” Diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in 2023, she remained a passionate advocate for women's rights up until her final days.

Richards served as the president of Planned Parenthood from 2006 to 2018, a tenure marked by significant challenges, including intense scrutiny from conservative factions and ongoing efforts to defund the organization. She became a leading voice for abortion access, particularly during the tumultuous political climate that followed the election of Donald Trump in 2016. The fight intensified after the U.S. Supreme Court ultimately overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, a decision that Richards described as a pivotal moment in the struggle for reproductive rights.

Over her 12 years with Planned Parenthood, Richards not only defended the organization against attacks but also expanded its influence within the Democratic Party, making support for abortion rights a key platform for candidates. President Joe Biden honored Richards with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in November 2024, recognizing her work in advancing civil rights and women’s reproductive health.

Richards was born on July 15, 1957, in Texas, the daughter of former Governor Ann Richards, a well-known political figure. Throughout her career, Cecile drew inspiration from her mother’s legacy, emphasizing the importance of fighting for justice and equity. In her final public appearances, she spoke passionately about mobilizing women and the urgency of addressing reproductive health issues.

Current Planned Parenthood President Alexis McGill Johnson described her as an “indomitable force” in the fight for reproductive freedom. “As we continue to navigate uncharted territory, we will be able to meet the challenges we face in large part because of the movement Cecile built over decades,” Johnson stated.

Richards’ legacy is set to inspire generations to come, as many continue her fight for access to reproductive health care. "The only acceptable answer is: ‘Everything we could,’” she often quoted, urging others to remain steadfast in the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality.

To learn more about Cecile Richards’ remarkable life and contributions, visit HuffPost, The Guardian, or CBS News.