John, let me tell you a story about perseverance.

The only college I applied to was the University of North Carolina. I attended for 2 years through scholarships and grants but eventually left to work after I could no longer sustain the tuition costs. I went back a few years later for one semester, but even then, I couldn’t manage working and studying full time. I got married, and had my children, but I always felt like something was missing.

The thing is, John, I’m not a quitter, but I had quit school. I felt like I had let down my friends who had graduated college, and wanted to be an example for my children on how to accomplish goals – but mostly, I had this fire within me to succeed.

So, over 25 years later, I went back to UNC and earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Afro and African-American studies. For those 4 semesters, I was a dean’s list student while working as County Commissioner.

The moral of the story? It’s not about how many times you get knocked down – it’s about getting back up. Despite the challenges we face after the 2024 election, I will never give up in the fight for reproductive freedoms, our children’s education, preventing gun violence, and so much more.

This week is my first mid-month fundraising deadline of the new year. If you’re with me and ready to persevere through 2025, will you chip in $10 to support my campaign?

Thank you,

Valerie Foushee