RANCHO MIRAGE, CA — Today, the Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp celebrating the life of former First Lady Betty Ford on the campus of Eisenhower Health, adjacent to the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, CA. She was the wife of Gerald R. Ford, the 38th president, and was widely admired for her support of women’s rights and her candor about the serious health challenges she faced.  

The stamp was dedicated by Amber McReynolds, vice chair of the Postal Service’s Board of Governors. Also attending were Susan Ford Bales, Betty Ford’s daughter; Marty Massiello, CEO of Eisenhower Health; Dr. Joseph Lee, president and CEO of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation; and Tessa Voss, also of the foundation.   

“It is fitting for the Postal Service to honor Mrs. Ford this way because she was an outspoken and enthusiastic supporter of women’s rights and aspirations. Our organization has a proud record of providing opportunities for women throughout its history,” said McReynolds. “The first female postmaster, Mary Katharine Goddard, took office in Baltimore in 1775, and today, more than half of all postmasters are women.” 

“With this magnificent stamp, the Postal Service and the American people pay tribute to a woman of extraordinary courage and candor, to a transformative first lady, and a devoted wife,” said Bales. “In so doing they honor a woman that, today and in my every tomorrow, I am so proud to call Mom.”  

“There are times when courageous people stand up and change the conversation for America. Betty Ford did that for both breast cancer and addiction — replacing shame and isolation with dignity, community, and equitable care,” Lee said. “Thanks to her, millions of people in this country felt seen for the very first time. And that is why Betty Ford is a national treasure and why all of us feel inspired to carry her charge for a lifetime.” 

Ford was born Elizabeth Anne Bloomer in Chicago on April 8, 1918. At age 2, she moved with her family to Grand Rapids, MI, where she spent her childhood. Young Betty began dancing at the age of 8 and excelled. She moved to New York City to study under the legendary Martha Graham and joined her troupe to perform at Carnegie Hall. She returned to Grand Rapids and married William C. Warren in 1942, divorcing him in 1947.