John F. Kennedy
Washington D.C., January 7, 1954
John F. Kennedy TLS + 14-Word ANS "looking forward to getting back to Washington" After Receiving Last Rites!
A 1p typed letter signed by John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), then U.S. Senator from Massachusetts and future 35th U.S. President, as "Jack" above his typed signature as "John F. Kennedy" near bottom right. Kennedy has also added a 14-word autograph manuscript note underneath his signature, as: "many many thanks Helen for your nice letter. I hope to see you soon." January 7, 1955. [Washington, D.C.] On a leaf of "United States Senate / Washington, D.C." letterhead. Expected wear including flattened transmittal folds and some ink marks on top due to folding of paper while ink was still wet. Accompanied by original mailing envelope. Measures 6.25" x 8."

Two years after being elected to the U.S. Senate, JFK had to undergo surgery to fuse his spinal disks. It was a risky operation, but there was a chance that if he didn't take the surgery, he would be confined to a wheelchair for life. After the operation, he developed an infection that became serious due to his Addison's disease and his temperature spiked and the future President slipped into a coma. JFK wasn't expected to last the night and a priest was summoned to administer last rites for the fourth time in his life. But again, he managed to pull through and spent five months recovering. Kennedy wrote this note to Keyes early on in his recovery.

Provenance: Helen Mary Keyes

Keyes had long and storied ties to the Kennedy family. Her father was the dentist to Joe and Rose Kennedy's children and the families' children became friends. Helen played a major role in JFK's 1952 Senate campaign, hosting famous ‘Ladies' Teas' for the rising star of the Democratic Party. Her involvement continued throughout the Kennedy administration and during both the 1960 and 1964 Presidential campaigns.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!
6.25" x 8."