WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
  • Bookmark This Page
  • Site Map
  • Sign up for WebMD Newsletters

The content below was selected by the WebMD Editorial staff and is solely under WebMD's editorial control.

Candid Candidate

* John Edwards pulled out of the presidential race on Jan. 30, 2008 *

John Edwards (D)

Occupation: Former U.S. senator from North Carolina

Birth Date: June 10, 1953

Spouse: Elizabeth

Children: Catherine, Emma, Jack. In 1996, Lucius Wade Edwards died in a car accident.

WebMD asked all the presidential candidates eight questions about how health affects them, from guilty pleasures to defining moments. While John Edwards has not yet responded to those questions, here are some health issues he or his family has faced.

Edwards' wife, Elizabeth, was diagnosed with breast cancer one day after the general election in 2004. She was in remission until March 2007 when her doctors discovered cancer on one of her ribs. She now has stage IV breast cancer. It's treatable, but not curable. At the time, Edwards said she would begin a new round of cancer treatment, and that she would also continue to campaign for her husband.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Find out where John Edwards stands on the key health issues.
View full profile

The Edwards' son Wade died at age 16 in a car accident.

Elizabeth gave birth at age 48 to daughter Emma Claire and at about age 50 to son Jack.

Before beginning his political career, Edwards was a top personal injury trial attorney, winning several high-profile medical malpractice cases.

He enjoys running.

His worst habit is "drinking soda."

The content contained in WebMD's "Health Matters in the 2008 Election" section is for informational purposes only. WebMD does not endorse any specific political party, candidate, committee, idea or belief.

The Candidates

Read the candidates' health platforms plus find out how health affects them personally.

McCain (R) Platform | Personal
Obama (D) Platform | Personal
Third-Party Candidates:
Barr (L) Platform | Personal
Nader (I) Platform | Personal

Your Vote Matters

Register to vote: