Sara Orris, a teacher for 14 years, has an 11-year-old daughter Natalie with a rare genetic condition. Last year after a grueling surgery and hospital stay, Natalie needed around-the-clock care for six weeks.
Sara had five โcritical illnessโ days and then applied for FMLA โ with no pay. โMy daughter needed me. She still needed me when I returned to work. I was exhausted and emotionally spent. But the medical bills were already arriving.โ
A friend suggested Sara get involved with the Campaign for Paid Family Leave. She researched the coalition and agreed to talk to a reporter. โI was nervous but I did not hesitate,โ she said. โI was angry that I actually had to consider, for even a moment, choosing work over my daughterโs care.โ
Sara has now spoken to several news outlets, participated in events at the Capital, and educated whoever she could. โI am thrilled to be able to turn what was an extremely stressful situation into something positive,โ she said.
Sara was disappointed the bill hasnโt passed yet but is glad they made progress and hopes for passage next session. She experienced an outpouring of support and raised awareness about the disease. Says Sara: โAt one point someone called me an โactivistโ and I decided to wear that badge proudly. I am awed at how something as simple as using my voice could impact many peopleโs lives.โ
As for Natalie, โShe was happy her story may make it possible for all parents to be with their children when they go through something terrifying like surgery.โ
