Just hours before her grandson faces an historic election, Barack Obama’s grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, has died after a long battle with cancer at home in Hawaii.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A tragic turn of events for Sen. Barack Obama: his ailing grandmother died today.

Here’s a statement from Obama and his sister Maya Soetoro-Ng:

“It is with great sadness that we announce that our grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, has died peacefully after a battle with cancer. She was the cornerstone of our family, and a woman of extraordinary accomplishment, strength, and humility. She was the person who encouraged and allowed us to take chances. She was proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and left this world with the knowledge that her impact on all of us was meaningful and enduring. Our debt to her is beyond measure.

“Our family wants to thank all of those who sent flowers, cards, well-wishes, and prayers during this difficult time. It brought our grandmother and us great comfort. Our grandmother was a private woman, and we will respect her wish for a small private ceremony to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation to any worthy organization in search of a cure for cancer.”

Also, Terrance Tolber, the Director of Obama’s campaign in Nevada, died last night of a heart attack at the age of 44. Obama said he was “shocked and saddened” to learn of the death.

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