NEW YORK, NY – Richard Cohen, a well-respected journalist and the beloved husband of Meredith Vieira, passed away at the age of 76 on Christmas Eve after bravely battling multiple sclerosis for over five decades and surviving two cancer diagnoses.
The news of Cohen’s passing was shared on the Today show on Tuesday, Jan. 7, where Hoda Kotb revealed that he was surrounded by his loving family—including Vieira and their three children, Lily, Gabriel, and Benjamin—at the time of his death. Kotb mentioned that the family had recently spent quality time together during Thanksgiving, cherishing the moments they had with Cohen.
Throughout their 38-year marriage, Cohen and Vieira faced the challenges of living with multiple sclerosis, a disease that significantly impacted their lives. Despite the difficulties, Vieira remained a pillar of strength and unwavering support for Cohen as he transitioned from his journalism career to becoming a vocal advocate for MS awareness.
The couple found solace in humor and honesty to navigate the hardships they encountered, with Vieira emphasizing the importance of allowing each other to express their frustrations. Together, they embraced the reality of living with a chronic illness and chose to focus on staying positive and appreciating the time they had together.
Cohen’s memoir, “Chasing Hope: A Patient’s Deep Dive into Stem Cells, Faith, and the Future,” highlighted the impact of MS not only on the individual but also on their loved ones. He discussed the challenges faced by spouses in caring for their partners with chronic illnesses, shedding light on the emotional toll it takes on families.
Despite facing multiple health battles, including legal blindness due to MS and surviving cancer, Cohen maintained a sense of hope for a cure, expressing a desire for a long-term relationship with optimism. Throughout his journey, he discovered the power of hope and the resilience it instilled in him to continue fighting for a brighter future.
Vieira’s unwavering dedication to her family led her to step away from her career in broadcast journalism to prioritize spending more time with Cohen and their children, highlighting the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. Their enduring love and partnership serve as a testament to the strength of their bond and the resilience they displayed in the face of adversity.