Editor’s note. The following was sent to her constituents last Friday by pro-life Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wa.)

Rep Cathy McMorris Rodgers and the co founders of KIDS Leticia Velasquez (left) and Eileen Haupt.
Dear Friend,
As a pro-life leader and a pro-life mom, I acted yesterday – on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade – to protect the lives of the unborn.
I spoke for the majority of Americans – both Republicans and Democrats – who believe that no taxpayer dollars should fund elective abortion. I was proud to vote for the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2015, and I am committed to holding the federal government accountable to the law.
You may know that my son, Cole – who turned 7 this spring – was diagnosed with an extra 21st chromosome when he was born. And that extra chromosome has brought my family a great deal of joy.
And after spending yesterday afternoon at KIDS (Keep Infants with Down Syndrome) – with so many children who have disabilities – I was only further reminded of my gratitude to be part of a community so fiercely dedicated to protecting life.
Cole has made me appreciate even more how every human life is a gift. I’ve learned so much from my son – he’s strengthened my commitment to advocating for the disability community, and he has made me a better person and a better legislator. He’s given me a whole new passion and purpose for what I do.
Most important of all, Cole has renewed my belief that every person has a purpose, has a plan for their life, and that life should be valued and it should be celebrated.
I believe wholeheartedly that every life is a gift, and every human life is a story. I will continue to advocate – as a both a parent and as your voice in Congress – for the lives of the unborn.
You know that the work of a pro-life advocate is never done. We must keep taking a stand, we must keep telling the stories, and we must keep sharing the powerful and compelling facts that every life is a gift.
Together, I know we can accomplish great things.
I remain committed to advancing the cause of life this Congress. Please do not hesitate to give me a call if you have any questions about the work I am doing to protect the unborn.
Warm regards,
Cathy