Hi, John.

My name is Dr. Cecilia Grande, and I've been working as an OB-GYN in Florida for over 25 years. I am a proud supporter of the Florida Women's Freedom Coalition and their efforts to get abortion rights on the ballot here in Florida next fall.

What's happening in our state and across our nation right now is one of the most terrifying things I've experienced in my career. Abortion restrictions jeopardize the health and well-being of women of childbearing age, women who have complications, such as pre-term premature rupture of membranes, and women who have life-threatening conditions, including cancer.

As a woman, and as a doctor who pours all my time into helping my patients plan their families, the Florida legislature's decision to uphold a six-week abortion ban with minimal exceptions for rape, incest or the health of the mother is an absolute catastrophe. It puts women's lives at risk.

Make no mistake – Florida's abortion ban will hurt poor women, women without insurance, women who are under-insured, and women who are raped. It will hurt my patients and their families.

That's why I urge you to support the Florida Women's Freedom Coalition and their effort to get the right to abortion on the ballot next fall, where it will be up for a popular vote.

John, I never thought I would get involved in politics. I don't ever open my mouth about taxes or immigration because I respect my patients' right to privacy and ability to make decisions for themselves. This area of medicine is too complex to legislate, too complex for people who are not trained in medicine and not prepared for the myriad complications and complexities of each situation. When I see this attack on women's bodily autonomy, I can't stay silent.

I'm doing my part by giving out petitions to my patients, but I'm going to need your help, too, John. Will you donate $25 on behalf of my patients and their families so that we can get abortion rights on the ballot in Florida in 2024?

Thank you.
Dr. Cecilia Grande
OB-GYN