Russert's guest, columnist Mike Barnicle, heaped praise and sympathy on Ted Kennedy for having borne so many family tragedies.
The Kennedys have experienced many tragedies in their family. 
mnli hypothesis: The Kennedys have experienced many tragedies in their family.  premise: Russert's guest, columnist Mike Barnicle, heaped praise and sympathy on Ted Kennedy for having borne so many family tragedies.