Dr. Jennifer Ashton, the esteemed Chief Medical Correspondent for ABC News, faced an unimaginable tragedy with the loss of her ex-husband, Dr. Robert Ashton Jr., to suicide on February 11, 2017.
Dr. Jennifer Ashton and Dr. Robert Ashton Jr. shared a life intertwined by marriage for over two decades and raised two children together.
What happened to Dr. Jen Ashton’s husband, Robert Ashton?
Robert Ashton Jr., a highly regarded thoracic and cardiothoracic surgeon, distinguished himself with his expertise in intricate chest surgeries, including those involving the heart and lungs. His career included serving as the director of thoracic surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey and later working at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, where he tragically ended his life by jumping from the George Washington Bridge at the age of 52, just two weeks after their divorce.
The sudden and shocking nature of Robert’s death reverberated deeply within the medical community and among his family, friends, and colleagues. In the aftermath, Jennifer Ashton grappled with overwhelming feelings of guilt and self-blame, sentiments she candidly expressed in her book “Life After Suicide: Finding Courage, Comfort & Community After Unthinkable Loss.”
In poignant recollection, Ashton revealed how Robert had anticipated her struggle with guilt, leaving behind a poignant note addressed to her affirming, “First no one is to blame.” This compassionate gesture underscored his deep understanding of the emotional turmoil she would endure following his death, a sentiment Jennifer Ashton has shared to help others navigate similar challenges.
Two years later, Ashton penned her book, not only recounting her personal journey through grief but also offering solace and guidance to those grappling with the aftermath of suicide loss. Through her advocacy and public platform, she has become a vocal proponent for mental health awareness, urging vigilance in recognizing signs of distress even in those who outwardly appear strong.
Despite the profound sorrow she endured, Jennifer Ashton has found love anew. In August 2021, she married Tom Werner, chairman of the Boston Red Sox and a renowned television producer. Her journey underscores the resilience of the human spirit and serves as a beacon of hope that, with time, support, and love, it is possible to rediscover joy after enduring profound loss.
