Otis Air Force Base partly-printed hospital document, one page, 8 x 5.25, August 7, 1963. A “Report of Seriously Ill” for a patient identified as “Kennedy,” filled out as follows: “Brief Diagnosis: Prematurity, Respiratory distress,” “Recovery: Questionable,” “Religious Preference: Catholic—Baptized at birth by Father Scahill,” “Ward: 107 Nurs.,” and “Hour: 1600.” A prominently underlined notation at the top reads: “Not to be reported.” In fine condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds and small torn staple holes to top edge.
On August 7, 1963, Jacqueline gave birth to Patrick Bouvier Kennedy, the youngest of her and John’s children. Weighing only four pounds, ten ounces, the baby was immediately baptized and transferred to Boston Children's Hospital, where he died two days later of hyaline membrane disease (now more commonly called respiratory distress syndrome). The second loss of a child for the young couple—Arabella Kennedy was stillborn in 1956—this tragedy brought the couple noticeably closer together as they prepared for the 1964 campaign season. RR Auction COA.
