I’m running for Middletown Township Supervisor because I know first-hand how short life is, that we only have a small window of opportunity to make a difference, and most importantly because I want to give back to the community that has done so much for me.
I am 32 years old, and was born with Cystic Fibrosis, a chronic progressive genetic disease, that has a life expectancy of only 41 years of age. I have lived in Middletown my whole life, and this community has lifted me out of times of darkness, supported me, and helped me achieve so much more than I could have hoped for. Without the support of family, friends, and neighbors, I am not sure if I would be here today. Because of this support, I have been able to raise $65,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Now I’m running to give back to a community that has given so much to me. I intend to make a lasting impact and use all the time I have left to help those that helped me.
My hope is that I can help bring a fresh perspective to the board while also keeping in mind the things that I loved about growing up in Middletown. As the current Chair of the Board of Auditors, I am committed to making Middletown a great, affordable place to live, with a focus on improving government. I intend to continue working toward this goal as a supervisor. I will hold the line on taxes so that young families can move here and stay here as they grow, and so our seniors don’t get priced out of their homes.
I hear from people that politicians and government don’t care about their issues, and don’t want to help. I’ve had a lifetime of navigating our health system, so I know firsthand what it is like to have to call a government agency or some faceless insurance company bureaucracy to get an issue resolved. This should not fall on the shoulders of the taxpayers—government should be responsive to them. I am committed to being responsive to constituent issues and I will work to introduce innovative technologies to modernize our local government. I want to improve communication between the residents and elected officials and ensure that Middletown keeps up with the modern world.
Additionally, I have fond memories of the local mall area but it has become barren and deserted. I would like to revitalize it because my first job was at the mall and I want the next generation of young adults to have the same warm feelings for their hometown that I have.
I am honored to be part of the Emerge network as a 2018 graduate. I’m thankful for the confidence that Emerge has given me to run for higher office. Having the support of my cohort while I went through the program and while I’ve been running for Township Supervisor has been life-changing. Emerge helps us be the change we seek in our communities. The program provided me with the tools I needed to run, and the confidence I needed.
My cohort’s dedication to making things better for other people inspires me every day to keep going, keep running, and keep fighting. Emerge graduates have helped lift me up—not only on the campaign trail, but also in life. This organization is more than just a bond of like-minded individuals—it is a sisterhood, all here for each other. Emerge helps you realize you can accomplish more together than on their own.
I can’t wait to watch as more of my sisters run for office, and as they progress throughout their careers. We are one big family, not just in Pennsylvania but across the country. I’m honored every day to be able to say I graduated from Emerge Pennsylvania.