Friend, right now the Senate Judiciary Committee is considering Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s nomination to the Supreme Court, and their decision will have massive implications for the right to choose. That's why, today, I'm reaching out personally to you to share my own story about how deeply personal of an issue this is for so many Americans. I hope you'll take a moment to read this message.

When my first wife was pregnant – with a child we dearly wanted – her water broke at only four months. The doctor made it very clear: Our baby had zero chance of survival and to go home and wait for a miscarriage to happen.

Our hearts were shattered; our minds in total shock; our souls crushed. No words will ever describe the pain and loss.

After two excruciating nights waiting for a miscarriage, our doctor became seriously concerned for my wife’s health – she needed an emergency abortion immediately or her life could be at risk.

Our doctor went to the hospital board, asking for an exception to their policy prohibiting abortions.

I remember what happened next, vividly. Our doctor left us a voicemail and told us the hospital board would not grant an exemption, even though there was no chance for the fetus to survive. He then said the decision was based on politics, not good medical advice or practices, and recommended we immediately find another physician due to the worries about my wife’s health. Thankfully, we were able to find a hospital that would perform the emergency procedure in time.

It was the kind of traumatic experience you could never imagine – or one you wish nobody would ever experience.

But I know that sharing these stories matters, because this difficult circumstance is still happening – all across our country.

I chose to share my story because it underscores the importance of safeguarding Roe v. Wade and the rights it has granted to women and families – rights that are often exercised under the most trying of circumstances.

Today, the right to choose is facing unprecedented and coordinated attacks from Republicans at every level. It's why it's so unbelievably important we confirm those to our highest court, like Judge Jackson, who will defend the precedent of Roe v. Wade and the right for women and families to make their own health care decisions.

But I need your help to press this importance upon my colleagues in the Senate, which is why I have an important ask of you, friend: Sign my petition calling on the Senate Judiciary Committee to listen to the majority of Americans: Protect Roe v. Wade and advance Judge Jackson’s nomination. I'm hoping to get another 300 signatures before midnight, so I'd really appreciate you signing on.

You have my word that I will always fight for reproductive rights, but I need you with me on this.

Thank you,

Gary