SOME say the news of US Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy's brain tumour signals the end of an era. More than that, it heralds the dying moments of a dynasty that has gripped the world's imagination for half a century.

As the last surviving brother of assassinated president John F Kennedy, the 76-year-old has lived to see the best and worst of his country. Even now, his is one of the only names in America that resonates in Ireland, the country of his ancestors.

While no prognosis for the stricken politician has been made public, this type of tumour kills half its victims within a year.

Yet, it will come as no surprise to anyone that Senator Kennedy went sailing as soon as he was released from hospital this week. His message is both clear and heartening. This is a man who will not go down without a fight.