this lady and me.

I got to meet this lady on Wednesday.


Ann Romney, wife of Governer Mitt Romney, was in Cedar Rapids on Wednesday. Luckily my mother in law is quite the Republican and has volunteered endless hours to the Romney campaign. She was able to set up a little meeting between Mrs. Romney and me. What do this lady and I have in common? Well, unfortunately a little disease called Multiple Sclerosis.

First we heard her speak at a fundraiser for a local Republican running for office. The minute she entered the room there was an energy and support that I can't describe. She is radiant and wonderful. She talked about her grandfather who was a Welch coal miner and eventually made his way to America. She said that's what America is all about, from the mines of Wales to potential future first lady of the United States. I thoroughly enjoyed her speech and presence.

Sadly, because of press scares, our "meeting at a restaurant" turned into a quick meeting and chat, along with taking my phone number. She was able to call me later that evening to discuss said disease and give me some advice. This woman has overcome so much and you would never know of the endless symptoms she deals with every day of her life. When discussing the "MS brainfreeze" (the inability to recall information), I mentioned how stressful that must be in her situation where she is constantly in the lime light and giving speeches/talking to important people every day. Her response was, "You know, it's very frustrating but at the end of the day, you do the best you can. That's all you can do." I really appreciated her attitude and the advice she was able to give me. She was kind, thoughtful, and lovely.

I know I'm a Romney fan.