I've Been On Blind Dates Better Than That: Molly Ivins

Legendary Texas author and humorist Molly Ivins died nearly four years ago at the age of 62 from stage three inflammatory breast cancer. She was first diagnosed in 1999, and the disease recurred twice in 2003 and in 2005. She began her last leave from writing her syndicated column in December 2006, was hospitalized on January 26, 2007, and died at her home in Austin five days later on January 31.

On fighting breast cancer, Ivins said, "Having breast cancer is massive amounts of no fun. First they mutilate you; then they poison you; then they burn you. I have been on blind dates better than that."

Former President George W. Bush, who was often the recipient of her critiques, later said, "I respected her convictions, her passionate belief in the power of words. She fought her illness with that same passion. Her quick wit and commitment will be missed."

Below is an archive from NPR's "All Things Considered," in their episode remembering Molly Ivins.