From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Five Presidents and The Kennedy Detail comes an “insightful and beautifully told look into the life of one of the most public and admired first ladies” (Publishers Weekly)—Betty Ford. Betty Ford: First Lady, Women’s Advocate, Survivor, Trailblazer is the inspiring story of an ordinary Midwestern girl thrust onto the world stage and into the White House under extraordinary circumstances. Setting a precedent as First Lady, Betty Ford refused to be silenced by her critics as she publicly championed equal rights for women, and spoke out about issues that had previously been taboo—breast cancer, depression, abortion, and sexuality. Privately, there were signs something was wrong. After a painful intervention by her family, she admitted to an addiction to alcohol and prescription drugs. Her courageous decision to speak out publicly sparked a national dialogue, and in 1982, she co-founded the Betty Ford Center, which revolutionized treatment for alcoholism and inspired the modern concept of recovery. Lisa McCubbin also brings to light Gerald and Betty Ford’s sweeping love story: from Michigan to the White House, until their dying days, their relationship was that of a man and woman utterly devoted to one another other—a relationship built on trust, respect, and an unquantifiable chemistry. Based on intimate interviews with her children, Susan Ford Bales and Steven Ford, as well as family, friends, and colleagues, Betty Ford is “a vivid picture of a singularly influential woman” (Bookpage).

"John Robert Greene traces Betty Ford's problems and triumphs from her childhood through her husband's entire political career, including his controversial presidency, which thrust her into an unrelenting media spotlight. He then tells how she confronted her personal demons, and became a symbol of courage for women throughout the nation."--BOOK JACKET.

In this candid and moving memoir, former First Lady Betty Ford shares her experience, understanding, and hope so that others can discover that alcoholism and drug addiction need not rob them of their lives. Much more than one woman's intimate odyssey through loneliness and despair to happiness and health, this extraordinary volume is one of encouragement, comfort, and support to all families and individuals. It is a living testament to the power of love, the joys of recovery, and the will to survive that can give life a new, and often better, beginning. Like so many millions of Americans, Betty Ford suffered from alcoholism and drug addiction. But, in her case, as in many cases, the disease took years to surface. When it did, it took all of the strength and courage that she and her family possessed to be able to deal with it. Betty: A Glad Awakening is the deeply personal story of one of the most celebrated women of our time. Wonderment, gratitude, serenity, laughter, freedom—these are but a few of the gifts that Mrs. Ford received in her journey through treatment to recovery. And, as she so eloquently describes in her book, they inspired her to help others who feel defeated by the disease of addiction.

The professionals at the Betty Ford Center -- one of the world's leading & most trusted sources of treatment for addiction -- have provided thousands with the strength, support, & expertise that substance abusers need to get well. Now, the Center's former medical director shares that expertise in this remarkably honest & complete book, which answers vital questions that surround this difficult subject. Whether you are 10 years sober, a current or potential substance abuser, or you care about someone who is, this volume will help you better understand -- & fight -- the destructive powers of addiction.

"This book documents the work of Betty Davenport Ford from 1941 to the present, summarizing her career as sculptor and teacher."--Amazon.com.

Betty Ford is remembered as one of the most outspoken and influential first ladies of all time. Although she entered into the White House during turbulent times, Mrs. Ford captivated a nation and provided them with someone they could trust. Serving immediately following the Watergate scandal meant that she would be subjected to greater scrutiny than most of her predecessors. Fortunately for the country, Mrs. Ford did not shy away from the challenge. Her positive attitude, candour, and honesty were refreshing remedies for an ailing nation and set the standard for the modern first lady. She championed many issues including alcohol and drug abuse, women's rights, breast cancer awareness and other social concerns. This new biography sheds light on this charismatic first lady.

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 Betty Ford’s story is one of extraordinary circumstances, as she was thrust into the world stage in 1974 as first lady. She was tough, strong, and graceful, and she fell in love with dancing as a child. #2 Betty’s childhood was spent moving around with her family. She had two brothers, Bill and Bob, and a sister, Hortense. They would eventually settle in Grand Rapids, Michigan. #3 The Bloomers moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1920. The city was largely Dutch and Protestant, and they became close with their cousins, the Irwins. The children made friends and spent hours at the lake, swimming, sailing, and fishing. #4 Betty’s father was a traveling salesman, and he was gone for weeks at a time. Hortense, however, kept him apprised of what was going on in the family through daily letters. Betty loved her father, but she was determined to never marry a man who traveled.