Description
Octavo, viii, [2], 783pp. Blue cloth binding, title printed on label affixed to spine. Publishers original acetate cover. Top edge gilt. Original slipcase, title on label affixed to side panel, light toning due to age, near fine condition. This edition was limited to 1963 signed copies, this being number 1324. Additional inscription on limitation page from author Theodore Sorensen to President Kennedy’s doctor, Max Jacobson. Inscription reads: “To Max, One of JFK’s dearest friends – and mine – with gratitude for his encouragement + help. Theodore Sorensen.” (Newcomb, 116).
Comments: Max Jacobson was a physician to high profile clients, including President John F. Kennedy. He was nicknamed “Dr. Feelgood” and “Miracle Max.” While serving as a Senator and leading up to the Presidential Election of 1960, Kennedy hid the extent of his health problems form the public. Max Jacobson administer heavy doses of amphetamines to help soothe the presidents persistent back pain. His treatments were stopped by White House physicians in 1962 and replaced with a “more appropriate” treatment. White House photographer Mark Shaw continued to use the services of Dr. Jacobson, but died in 1969 due to “amphetamine poisoning.” Ted Sorensen, author of his book, spent much of his life disputing the claims that Kennedy was “virtually disabled” by his medical issues.
