Updated: November 17, 2016
Originally Published: November 2, 2016
I’m a 57-year-old woman who used to think I was born a decade too late. I graduated high school in ’77, missing out on Woodstock and all the wild protests that followed. But during President Obama’s second campaign, I realized it was far from too late for me to take action. Tomorrow, I’ll be stepping into the role of Staging Director for my third Democratic campaign: President Obama, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, and now, the future—President Hillary Clinton.
My journey hasn’t been easy. My first marriage was riddled with abuse, both emotional and physical. The turning point came when my ex-husband held a loaded gun to my head, asking our 3-year-old daughter if she wanted to see “mommy’s brains” on the wall. I packed two suitcases, took my children, and left without looking back. I owe a debt of gratitude to many who supported me during that dark time.
For six years, I was a single mother until I met the love of my life. We share a son, and he has embraced my two older children as his own. In return, they adore him. However, three years ago, I rushed my husband, George, to the ER, only to discover he was suffering from end-stage heart failure—misdiagnosed previously as chronic bronchitis. He was literally drowning because his heart couldn’t pump fluid effectively. Now, we face the daunting challenges of an LVAD and a heart transplant, but we’re fortunate to have excellent health insurance through my job. One terrifying night turned me from a wife into a caregiver.
George’s youngest son, Jake (my stepson), came to live with us at the age of 12. Unfortunately, Jake wasn’t as fortunate as his father. At 36, he experienced chest pains and was told he would need heart surgery, but without insurance, he couldn’t schedule the procedure. The next time he felt those pains, he didn’t survive. At just 37, Jake passed away—his lack of health insurance was a death sentence. We only learned of his dire situation after it was too late. Every time I hear someone grumbling about the ACA, I want to scream. That law could have saved our son’s life.
So now, I fight. I fight for healthcare. I fight against domestic violence. I stand with women who share my beliefs and against those who think it’s acceptable to grab women by the p*ssy simply because they think they can get away with it.
Volunteering has opened up incredible opportunities for me. I’ve driven in Joe Biden’s motorcade, chatted with the fantastic first lady, Michelle Obama, and spent time with our future Vice President, Tim Kaine, along with numerous other Virginia politicians.
My advice? Get involved. Make a difference. Change the world. And do not forget to VOTE!
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Summary:
At 57, I realized it’s never too late to take action. After overcoming personal struggles, including an abusive marriage and navigating healthcare challenges, I’ve committed to fighting for issues that matter to me. From volunteering in political campaigns to advocating for healthcare and against domestic violence, my journey has been transformative. I encourage everyone to get involved and make a difference.