Dr. Ruth Westheimer

Early Life and Survival

Karola Ruth Siegel, known worldwide as Dr. Ruth Westheimer, was born on June 4, 1928, in Wiesenfeld, Germany. As the only child of Orthodox Jewish parents, Irma and Julius Siegel, Ruth’s early life was marked by tragedy and resilience. In January 1939, as the Nazi regime tightened its grip on Germany, 10-year-old Ruth was sent to Switzerland as part of the Kindertransport, a rescue effort that saved thousands of Jewish children from the Holocaust. Tragically, her parents were killed in the Holocaust, likely at Auschwitz concentration camp.

Education and Formative Years

Despite the hardships of her youth, Ruth’s indomitable spirit shone through. After World War II, she emigrated to British-controlled Mandatory Palestine, where she joined the Haganah, a Jewish paramilitary organization. At just 17 years old and standing at 4 feet 7 inches tall, she was trained as a sniper. On her 20th birthday, Ruth was severely wounded during the Palestine War, nearly losing both feet.

A Journey of Academic Pursuit

Ruth’s thirst for knowledge led her to Paris, where she studied psychology at the Sorbonne. In 1956, she immigrated to the United States, working as a maid to fund her graduate studies. Her perseverance paid off as she earned a Master of Arts in sociology from The New School in 1959 and a doctorate from Teachers College, Columbia University, in 1970.

Personal Life and Family

Ruth’s personal life was as eventful as her professional journey. She married three times, finding lasting love with her third husband, Fred Westheimer, a fellow refugee from Nazi Germany. Together, they raised two children: Joel and Miriam. Fred and Ruth’s marriage lasted until his death in 1997.

Rise to Fame as “Dr. Ruth”

Dr. Ruth’s media career began in 1980 with her radio show “Sexually Speaking.” Her frank, warm, and often humorous approach to discussing sex quickly gained popularity. By 1983, it was the top-rated radio show in New York City. This success led to television shows, including “The Dr. Ruth Show,” which attracted millions of viewers weekly.

Impact and Legacy

Dr. Ruth Westheimer became a cultural icon, known for her candid discussions about sex and relationships. Her approach combined professional expertise with a disarming personality, making taboo subjects accessible to the general public. She authored over 45 books on sex and sexuality, appeared in numerous television shows and commercials, and even co-starred in a movie. Throughout her career, Dr. Ruth received numerous accolades, including induction into the Radio Hall of Fame, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and the Leo Baeck Medal. Her work significantly contributed to destigmatizing conversations about sex and promoting sexual health education.

Final Days and Lasting Influence

Dr. Ruth Westheimer passed away on July 12, 2024, at the age of 96, in her New York City home. She died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. Even in her later years, Dr. Ruth remained active as a lecturer and writer, continuing to educate and entertain until the end. Dr. Ruth’s legacy as a pioneering sex therapist, media personality, and advocate for sexual education will continue to influence generations to come. Her life story, from Holocaust survivor to beloved cultural figure, serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of resilience, education, and open communication.