Continuing to Serve SW Wash.

To the Editor:

As the summer work period comes to a close and the U.S. House of Representatives reconvenes on September 9, I want to provide an update to the residents of Southwest Washington about my family situation as it pertains to my duties as Southwest Washington’s representative.  

Recently, I announced the birth of my daughter Abigail, who arrived three months early and with a serious medical condition that was previously considered fatal.  Since that time, my husband Daniel and I have been at Abigail’s side at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, California – one of the few hospitals in the region with the medical expertise and willingness to care for a baby of her size with her extremely rare medical condition. I’m pleased to report that her doctors are happy with her progress and optimistic about her future. Dan and I continue learning how to manage her day-to-day care while she gets healthier and overcomes her health challenges.

 Of course we hope to come home with Abigail as soon as possible but the truth is we don’t know precisely when that will be. Meanwhile, I remain engaged with my duties as Southwest Washington’s federal representative. While it’s not possible for me to resume a full congressional schedule until after Abigail can be brought home, I am in touch with my staff continually and with the House leadership sharing my views when needed. I will be able to travel back and forth from the hospital to Washington, DC to participate in critical votes. For example, I plan to be in Washington, DC next week to vote on the President’s request for authorization of military force in Syria. I also continue to communicate with constituents electronically, and as early as next week will be conducting community meetings via telephone that will be open to all district residents.

As always, I encourage Southwest Washington residents needing help to get in touch with my office immediately. My staff and I will continue to work as a team to assist anyone from the 3rd District facing a problem with federal laws or agencies. Office information, resources, and news updates are all available at jaimehb.house.gov. 

Finally, I want to thank you and all of the people of Southwest Washington for your prayers, support and understanding during this uncertain time for my family. Since our first family announcement the reaction we've received has been touching and humbling. Dan and I may never be able fully to express how much it has meant to receive so many wonderful messages from people in every community in our district, all backgrounds and political persuasions. At this point I can just say that it is an honor to represent you.

Sincerely,

Jaime Herrera Beutler
Member of Congress