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Sandra Day O. Connor, a retired Supreme Court justice and first woman to serve in the country's highest court, has been diagnosed with dementia and is currently battling the early stages of the disease, she said. announced in a public letter addressed to American compatriots "Tuesday morning.
O 'Connor retired from the Supreme Court in 2006. She was appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, at the age of 51.
"Some time ago, doctors diagnosed me with the early stages of dementia, probably Alzheimer's disease," wrote O & # 39; Connor, explaining that the disease had progressed to the point that & # 39; She could no longer participate in public life.
"As many people have asked about my current status and activities, I want to be open about these changes and, as long as I can, share some personal thoughts," she said. Since retiring from the Supreme Court 12 years ago, its primary goal has been to promote civic engagement – advocating for Americans to "understand our Constitution and our unique system of government, and actively participate in their communities" .
She spoke about the program she's writing, iCivics, which teaches children across the country.
"I will continue to live in Phoenix, Arizona, surrounded by dear friends and family.Although the last chapter of my life with dementia can be challenging, nothing has diminished my gratitude and my deep gratitude for them. countless blessings of my life, "said O & # 39; Connor. wrote.
"As a young cowgirl from the Arizona desert, I would never have imagined one day becoming the first female judge of the United States Supreme Court," she added.
Read the full letter here:
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