What We Know About Michelle Obama's Father's Health Struggles

Michelle Obama has often credited her parents, Marian and Fraser Robinson III, with shaping her into the woman she is today. However, their own lives were nothing like their daughter’s incredible trajectory. Fraser Robinson III, born in Chicago, faced numerous challenges, including dropping out of college to support his family. With the arrival of their first child, Craig Malcolm Robinson, in 1962, Fraser and Marian made sacrifices to ensure a better life for their children. This dedication would become particularly poignant when Fraser was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at just 30 years old, profoundly affecting the family dynamics.

Fraser's diagnosis marked a turning point not only for him but also for Michelle, who was just a child at the time. The impact of his illness extended into various aspects of family life, shaping Michelle's perspective on resilience and commitment. Despite his mobility challenges, Fraser continued to work diligently at a water filtration plant, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to his family. Michelle recalls, “He got up, he went to work, he was never late, he never complained, and he was always, always focused on his family.” This unwavering spirit had a lasting influence on her, highlighting the strength of familial bonds amid adversity.

The journey of Fraser Robinson III illustrates a complex narrative of struggle and perseverance. As Michelle reflects on her father's challenges in her memoirs, it’s clear that his life lessons resonate deeply with her. Fraser's battle with MS not only shaped his life but also instilled invaluable lessons in his daughter. Through his example, she learned the importance of hard work, tenacity, and maintaining a positive outlook even in trying circumstances.

Inside Fraser Robinson III's Struggle with MS

At the age of five, Michelle first noticed her father using a cane, a symbol of the MS that was silently undermining his health. In her memoir, "The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times," she recounts how MS slowly affected Fraser's central nervous system, yet he never allowed it to define him. “Slowly and silently and probably long before he received a formal diagnosis, MS was undermining his body, eating away at his central nervous system and weakening his legs,” she wrote. His determination to work every day as a pump operator, despite worsening symptoms, exemplifies his resilience.

Fraser's refusal to succumb to his illness serves as a powerful lesson for Michelle. She emphasizes how he could have chosen a path of despair but instead opted for perseverance. “He could have never worked a day in his life, he could have collected social benefits, he could have succumbed to his disease and been depressed about it, but he didn’t,” she shared. This attitude towards life, filled with dignity and strength, became a cornerstone in Michelle’s own understanding of challenges and overcoming them.

Fraser Robinson III's Lasting Impact on Michelle Obama

Fraser's battle with MS ultimately culminated in his passing in 1991, leaving a profound impact on Michelle, who was just 27 at the time. In her memoir "Becoming," she reflects on the pain of losing him, describing it as a wound that reshaped her entire being. “It hurts to live after someone has died,” she writes, illustrating the deep emotional scars left by his absence. Yet, Fraser's legacy continues to inspire her daily, driving her forward in both her personal and public life.

Michelle's commitment to honoring her father's memory is evident in her speeches and public engagements. She regularly emphasizes the values he instilled in her, such as hard work and perseverance. “Every day, without fail, I watched my father struggle on crutches to slowly make his way across our apartment, out the door to work, without complaint or self-pity or regret,” she has shared. This vivid memory not only highlights Fraser's strength but also serves as a guiding principle for Michelle as she navigates her own challenges.

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