09/27/2014
From everyone at the Rowley RTC... Happy Birthday Debbie Tisei!
Today I want to wish a happy 53rd birthday to my sister, Debbie, who has taught me about love, perseverance, and compassion.
Debbie was born with a heart defect, and most who have it don't live past their teens. The condition is very difficult to manage, and over the years she's suffered strokes and other complications. Just last week Debbie suffered another health setback, but I am happy to report she just returned from the hospital and is in good spirits.
Through it all Debbie has persevered and shown tremendous courage and an optimistic attitude that is infectious to all who know her.
My sister's struggle has significantly shaped me into the person I am today. Without the help of government programs, she wouldn't enjoy the standard of care or quality of life she now does. It is our sacred responsibility to provide for those who can't provide for themselves, and I will never forget that we need a strong social safety net for those who need help. I devoted my career at the State House to fighting for our disabled community and am extremely proud of the difference it made in many people's lives.
Happy birthday, Debbie. You're an inspiration to us all.