Statement of Paul Helmke on Senator Kennedy's Illness

WASHINGTON, May 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Paul Helmke, President of the
Brady Campaign and the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, issued the
following statement on the news about Senator Edward Kennedy's medical
condition:

"All of us at the Brady Campaign and Brady Center were deeply saddened to hear
the news about Senator Kennedy's illness. We all care very deeply about
Senator Kennedy and consider him part of our family. His wife, Victoria, was
a longtime member of our Brady Center Board of Trustees and his niece,
Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, currently serves on our Board.

"Senator Kennedy has always been a courageous champion of efforts to prevent
gun violence. Last year he was a leader in ensuring that the Congress passed
legislation to strengthen the Brady background check system. This year, he
has been the leader in the Senate in pushing legislation to use new technology
to help police solve gun crimes.

"Senator Kennedy and his wife have attended many of our organization's events
over the years, most recently last month here in Washington. A year and a
half ago, they hosted a warm, memorable party in their home for Brady staff
and Board members. He is a cherished friend.

"We all know he has enormous personal strength, and we are praying and pulling
for him. Senator Kennedy and his family have our love and our support during
this struggle."

Contact: Peter Hamm, 202-898-0792

SOURCE Brady Campaign and Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence

Peter Hamm of the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, +1-202-898-0792