about a woman with strong midwestern roots, a firm sense of self, and above all a huge heart. memories of betty ford filled st. margaret's church. mourners recalled a woman who stayed true to herself no matter the circumstances. >> "i'll move to the white house, do the best i can, and if they don't like it, they can kick me out. but they can't make me be somebody i'm not." >> reporter: funny, feisty, and above all, fearless. ford personalized the role of first lady. >> women no longer are ashamed of having mastectomies. >> reporter: a america witnesse her courage as she battled breast cancer. her bravery continued upon leaving the white house. she admitted struggling with addiction and publicly discussed her treatment. later founding the betty ford clinic. >> today i am a very grateful recovering alcoholic. >> she was never afraid to speak the truth. even about the most sensitive subjects.