This past week, we lost Cecile Richards, a fierce advocate for women’s rights and healthcare access. Her passing is a tremendous loss for all of us who were inspired by her courage and vision. Cecile was a role model for so many, including me. Her book, Make Trouble, was the subject of my first blog … Continue reading Honoring Cecile Richards: Personal Reflections on Her Impact and Inspiration

As we step fully into the new year, I find myself reflecting on the stories I’ve read that build strength and courage – the ones that have stayed with me over the past year, long after the last page was turned. They remind me that resilience isn’t passive—it’s a choice to keep striving, to stay … Continue reading Winter’s Best Reads 2025: More Stories of Women’s Courage and Resilience

As 2024 comes to a close, I want to commemorate a major milestone and one of the highlights of my year: the friendly acquisition of Holy Family Hospitals by Lawrence General Hospital. We saved these hospitals from closing, and we are paving the way for a new and revitalized healthcare system in the Merrimack Valley.  … Continue reading My Leadership Journey: Expanding Massachusetts’ Safety Net Hospital System

Over the course of the summer, I experienced a full range of emotions about our upcoming election. The first part of the summer was hard. From the upset over the presidential debate in June, to the anger of witnessing the debasing of our political discourse, to the fear of losing our precious democracy, and ultimately … Continue reading Marching Toward the Election: It’s Time to Act

When I wrote “Marching Toward Coverage,” I was in a hurry to get it published before the 2020 election, hoping to inform the debate and protect the Affordable Care Act. I met my publication goal: my book came out on March 3, 2020, as planned, in time for several notable events: Women’s History Month and … Continue reading Four Years Later: Time to Engage

Summer is here! Once again, I’m happy to share with you some of my favorite books. I hope that you’ll find some time to read this summer, whether you are sipping lemonade in your backyard hammock or enjoying the breeze on a warm, sandy beach.  May these recommendations provide new perspectives and help you to … Continue reading Rest, Reflect and Recharge:  Summer Reading List 2023

This Mother’s Day, as one of my dearest friends has entered hospice after battling a life-threatening illness for the past 4 ½ years, I want to share the power of my remarkable collective friendship with her and three other women that began 24 years ago. The five of us came together in 1999 through a … Continue reading MOMSTRONG:  An Ode to Collective Friendship

I love how Women’s History Month gives us a chance, collectively, to celebrate the impact that women have had on our lives, whether they are famous historical figures, unsung heroes, or our own family members. In the little over a year since my mother passed away, I’ve taken solace in the stories of many strong … Continue reading From Grief to Growth: Some Personal Reflections for Women’s History Month

The season of giving is upon us, and a thoughtful book could be the best gift for yourself or others!  Even if you’ve already stocked up on gifts, consider adding one or two more for a friend or loved one. Or start a new tradition, with a New Year’s gift!  These are all books that have … Continue reading Winter Holiday Reading List 2022: Deepen Your Understanding