A healing journey into politics

I was born and raised in Iowa, and for most of my 39 years, I have lived in either Benton or Linn County. I am a 2003 graduate of Washington High School in Vinton, and I finished nursing school at Northeast Iowa Community College in Peosta in December 2006.

Over the years, I cared for many patients and their families all over Eastern Iowa, from the birthing suite to the deathbed, while raising my own three children as a single mother. I graduated with my master's degree in nursing education from Walden University in the spring of 2014. I had plans to teach at a university level, but fate intervened.

The courts wrongfully terminated my parental rights and I was forced to say goodbye to my children on Dec. 14, 2019. My family was gone, my professional reputation was destroyed, and I had lost everything I had worked for my entire life- it felt like the whole world was turned upside down and inside out! I have spent my time since then networking and obsessively researching, trying to figure out how to make sure that no other family has to endure the same heartbreak and trauma.

The silver lining to my family's tragic story is that I have been blessed with the freedom to truly care for myself, to heal and strengthen my own mental health.

My fiance and I have also spent a great deal of the last few years volunteering our time to help several families directly. From household repairs to yard work, to cleaning and organizing, to talking through the hurdles that plague them personally, we have provided hands-on assistance and counseled people through their personal crises so they could get back on their feet.

I never saw myself involved with politics, especially running for office at the state level, but this is where my journey has led me, and I know that I am right where I am supposed to be. My personal life experiences and the endless hours of research built upon the knowledge gained throughout my education and professional career, giving me the wisdom and the tools necessary to effectively advocate for Iowans in district 84. I am the best candidate for the job because I am dedicated and passionate about collaborating with Republicans and Democrats to find better solutions that will make Iowa great again … for ALL Iowans!

Ashley Meredith is a Libertarian candidate in House District 84.