Barack Obama's Grandmother Dies

[Spike]

[glow=red]Barack Obama's 86-year-old grandmother
has died on the eve of the US presidential election.[/glow]

In a joint statement with his sister, the Democratic candidate announced the news that Madelyn Dunham had died peacefully after a battle with cancer.
Just over a week ago, the Illinois senator took a break from campaigning and flew to Hawaii to be with Mrs Dunham, who had helped raise him.

At a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina, the 47-year-old Illinois senator said it was a "bitter-sweet time for me".

"She is going home," he said. "So there is great joy as well as tears."

"She was one of those quiet heroes that we have all across America," said Obama.

"They're not famous. Their names aren't in the newspapers. But each and every day they work hard. They sacrifice for their children and their grandchildren. They aren't seeking the limelight. All they try to do is just do the right thing."

McCain and his wife, Cindy, issued a statement of condolence.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to them as they remember and celebrate the life of someone who had such a profound impact in their lives," they said.