Since a very young age, I understood the meaning of what helping others was all about. Being in the foster care system, up until the age of seven, taught me invaluable lessons. One being, you must depend on strangers. Sadly, I found that not everyone was out for my best interest. I will never forget how all the empty promises made me feel. From that day forward, I refused to make promises I couldn't keep. I know the pain it causes.

Luckily, I was blessed when an elderly woman, named Mildred, took me in. She showed me unconditional love. I was made to believe in myself even though it was so hard to do. Living with Mildred made me realize it was all about the way we treat others. Her caring nature made everyone feel as if they mattered, that they had worth and most of all that they were loved.

My running, for State Senate, has to do with paying it forward. It's all about helping others. No different than all those who helped me along the way.