My personal tale of Clinton's compassion

In October 1997, my 37- year old colleague and friend was losing her battle with cancer. Throughout the fall, a group of us visited her each Tuesday night. On the Tuesday before she passed away, we all knew the end was near.

I asked her was there anything we could bring her; a favorite drink, a flower. She replied, "Hillary." Puzzled, I looked to her husband. He explained that she had always admired Hillary Clinton, as well as Princess Diana who had died in September.

While I couldn't do anything to bring her a princess, I decided to try to bring her a first lady.

The next morning, I called the White House. I was pleasantly surprised when I was connected with Hillary's secretary. I explained the reason for my call. The secretary said she would relay the message to Hillary when she returned from South America in two weeks.

I thanked her, hoping that my friend might linger a bit longer. She died that weekend.

Two weeks later, I was called from my classroom to the office because the White House was on the line. Hillary's secretary said Mrs. Clinton was standing by wanting to talk with my friend.

Sadly, I gave her the news. I listened as she told Hillary and heard a quiet, "Oh, no." The secretary asked for my friend's family address.

Soon after, a beautifully written letter from Hillary arrived, to be cherished forever.

I offer this story as another testimonial to Hillary Clinton's character. She is accessible to an ordinary citizen, she is compassionate, she is gracious. When I cast my vote in November, it is going to be for the candidate who has those qualities among others, Hillary Clinton.

Adrienne Hugo

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