By: Stephanie Neisen
This past Wednesday, my husband, Aaron Neisen, DO of Lewistown, MO had the honor of speaking at the United States Capitol, sharing the perspective of a rural physician during the announcement of bipartisan legislation supporting rural emergency departments.
Many of you watched the livestream, sent encouraging messages, and followed along on social media. Thank you. Knowing so many people back home were cheering us on made the experience even more meaningful.
While Aaron’s speech lasted only a few minutes, what we’ll remember most are the moments that happened before and after the cameras were rolling. I’d love to share a few of those memories with you.
One of the most special moments happened back home in La Belle. While Aaron was speaking in Washington, Matt, Hannah, Shannon (Healthspan’s newest nurse!) along with family members gathered at Healthspan for a watch party. Throughout the afternoon our phones buzzed with screenshots from friends watching the livestream, Facebook shares, and messages of encouragement. It never felt like we were standing in Washington alone. We truly felt like our community was there with us.
Once we arrived in Washington, one of the biggest surprises was getting to spend time with the people working behind the scenes. We had the opportunity to meet with Senator Hawley’s counsel, who helped draft the rural emergency department legislation. He took the time to explain how an idea becomes a bill, how legislation moves through the process, and all of the work that happens long before the public ever hears about it. It was fascinating to learn just how quickly this bill (Rural Hospital Emergency Room Guarantee Act) moved from concept to announcement. Even more remarkable, we learned the morning of the press conference that it had gained bipartisan support, from Senator Hassan of New Hampshire, making the day’s announcement even more meaningful.
We also had the privilege of touring the Capitol and the Russell Senate Office Building with members of Senator Hawley’s staff. Walking through the Capitol Rotunda, the Crypt, Statuary Hall, and the underground tunnels connecting the Senate buildings was something we’ll never forget. Everywhere we looked, we were surrounded by the history of our country.
One thing that really stood out to us was how proud everyone was of where they came from. Senator Hawley’s office reflected Missouri in so many ways. Paintings of rural Missouri hung on the walls, a Kansas City Chiefs banner was proudly displayed, and family photographs served as reminders that behind every office are people who remain connected to home. We met interns and staff members from across Missouri who were passionate about serving both their state and their country.
The timing of the trip made it even more memorable. Washington was alive with preparations for America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, with patriotic decorations throughout the city. President Trump was hosting a luncheon with Republican senators in the Capitol complex that same afternoon, so there was certainly no shortage of activity. Seeing senators walking between meetings, members of the press preparing for interviews, Capitol Police, Secret Service agents, and countless staff members working behind the scenes gave us a new appreciation for the number of people it takes to keep our government moving every day.
As impressive as Washington was, what struck us most was that the conversations continually came back to people.
People living in rural communities.
People who depend on having access to healthcare close to home.
People who dedicate their lives to serving others, whether that’s in a hospital, an ambulance, a primary care clinic, or in public service.
For Aaron, it was an incredible honor to speak on behalf of rural physicians and the patients we serve. For me, it was a privilege to watch someone who cares so deeply about our communities and access to healthcare represent Northeast Missouri on a national stage.
Thank you to everyone who watched the livestream, shared a post, sent a text, or simply offered words of encouragement. Your support meant more than you know.
We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity, humbled by the experience, and even more grateful to come home to the communities we are honored to serve every day.
