Updated: November 17, 2016
Originally Published: November 2, 2016
As a 57-year-old woman, I often felt as if I arrived a decade late to the party. Graduating high school in 1977 meant I missed out on iconic moments like Woodstock and never once found myself on the White House lawn during a protest. However, during President Obama’s second campaign, I realized it was never too late to engage. Tomorrow, I will proudly serve as a Staging Director for my third Democratic campaign: President Obama, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, and now, for a future we all believe in – President Hillary Clinton.
My journey began in a tumultuous first marriage marked by emotional and physical abuse. I summoned the strength to leave only after my husband pointed a loaded gun at my head, asking my 3-year-old daughter if she wanted to witness the aftermath. With two suitcases of clothes and my two children in tow, I left and never looked back. I owe an immense debt of gratitude to those who supported me during that harrowing time.
For six years, I navigated life as a single mother until I met the most wonderful man, whom I married. Together, we have one son, and he embraces my two older children as his own. He also had three children from a previous marriage, whom I welcomed with open arms. Tragically, three years ago, I rushed my husband, George, to the ER, where he was diagnosed with end-stage heart failure after being incorrectly treated for chronic bronchitis. He was literally drowning due to his heart’s inability to pump fluid effectively. Our next hurdle involves an LVAD and a heart transplant, but we are fortunate to have excellent health insurance through my job. In a single night, I transitioned from wife to caregiver.
George’s youngest son, Jake, came to live with us when he was just 12. Unfortunately, he faced a far tougher reality. At 36, Jake visited the ER with chest pains, only to be told he would eventually need heart surgery. However, due to a lack of insurance, he was unable to secure the necessary care. The next time he experienced chest pains, he did not survive. He was only 37. Just three months after George’s diagnosis, we lost Jake. His death was a direct consequence of not having health insurance. George and I were unaware of the severity of his situation until it was too late. Whenever I hear complaints about the ACA, I feel a surge of anger; that legislation could have saved our son’s life.
Now, I find myself fighting. I fight for healthcare access, I fight against domestic violence, and I stand with the women who champion my beliefs, opposing those who think it’s acceptable to disrespect women. Volunteering has opened doors I never imagined possible and has offered a welcome distraction from life’s chaos. I’ve been part of Joe Biden’s motorcade, engaged in meaningful conversations with the incredible First Lady, Michelle Obama, and spent time with our future Vice President, Tim Kaine, along with many other Virginia politicians.
My message is simple: get involved, make a difference, and change the world. And above all, remember to VOTE!
This article was originally published on November 2, 2016.
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Summary: A 57-year-old woman reflects on her life journey, from overcoming an abusive marriage to becoming an empowered advocate for healthcare and women’s rights. After experiencing personal tragedies, she emphasizes the importance of involvement in political and social issues, highlighting her volunteer work and encouraging others to make a difference.