I’m a 57-year-old woman who grew up believing I was born a decade too late. I graduated high school in 1977, missing out on iconic events like Woodstock and never experiencing the chaos of being hosed off the White House lawn. However, during President Obama’s second campaign, I realized that it was never too late to get involved. Tomorrow, I will take on the role of Staging Director for my third Democratic campaign—having previously supported President Obama and Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, I now stand ready to support our future, President Hillary Clinton.
My journey hasn’t been easy. My first marriage was marred by emotional and physical abuse. The turning point came when my then-husband held a loaded gun to my head and, in a horrifying moment, asked my three-year-old daughter if she wanted to see her mother’s brains spattered against the wall. I packed two suitcases, gathered my two children, and drove away without looking back. I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to those who helped me navigate that dark chapter of my life.
Following six years as a single mother, I married the most wonderful man, David. Together, we have a son, and he has embraced my older children as if they were his own. He also has three older children from his previous marriage, whom I welcomed into our family. Three years ago, I took David to the ER, only to discover he was in end-stage heart failure, having been misdiagnosed with chronic bronchitis. The reality was far grimmer—he was drowning in fluid due to a failing heart. Our next hurdles include an LVAD and a heart transplant. Thankfully, I work for a company that offers remarkable health insurance, but everything changed overnight as I transitioned from wife to caregiver.
David’s youngest son, Jake, came to live with us at age 12. Unfortunately, Jake’s journey was not as fortunate as his father’s. At 36, he went to the ER with chest pains, and the doctors warned him he would eventually need heart surgery. However, without insurance, they couldn’t schedule any procedures that weren’t deemed immediately necessary. Tragically, the next time Jake experienced chest pains, he didn’t survive—he was only 37. Just three months after David’s diagnosis, we lost Jake. His life was cut short due to a lack of health insurance. We only learned of his situation after his passing. Every time I hear complaints about the Affordable Care Act (ACA), I feel a surge of frustration; the ACA could have saved our son’s life.
Now, I fight fiercely. I fight for access to healthcare, against domestic violence, and for the values I believe in—especially in opposition to those who think it’s acceptable to disrespect women. Volunteering has provided me with incredible experiences; I’ve driven in Joe Biden’s motorcade, conversed with the inspiring Michelle Obama, and spent time with our future Vice President, Tim Kaine, among countless other Virginia politicians.
My Advice to You
Get involved. Make a difference. Change the world. And, of course, VOTE! For more insights on becoming engaged and active in your community, check out this related blog post. If you’re interested in at-home insemination options, consider visiting Make A Mom for a reputable selection of at-home insemination kits. Additionally, News Medical is a fantastic resource for information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, it’s never too late to take the reins of your life, advocate for what you believe in, and seek out the support you need. Your voice matters, and your actions can create ripples of change.
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