This is Maria Nelson, Thomas’ wife and I’m taking over today’s email because this month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time that hits very close to home for me.

I’m a breast cancer survivor and I want to urge women to pay attention to their bodies, see their doctors with any concerns and get mammograms as scheduled.

We, as women, need to give our health the priority it deserves, but it’s hard to do. For some of us, we’re too busy working, driving to piano lessons, cleaning and grocery shopping. But there’s millions of women who neglect their health, not only because of time, but because they simply can’t afford it. I was lucky to have good insurance and great doctors to get me through my cancer treatments. No woman should put off her health because she can’t afford treatment. One of the reasons I'm so proud to support Thomas' campaign for U.S. Senate is because he makes access to health care a priority every day.

I urge women to get their mammograms and I hope you will consider donating to Peaceful Purpose, a wonderful nonprofit that helps women with medical hair loss. They helped me find a wig when I needed it and I hope to help other women as well.

To learn more about Peaceful Purpose, click here. If you're able, click here to make a donation.

Sincerely,

Maria Nelson