Opinion: Don't Confuse Shaving With Caring About Children

A Letter to the Editor from Melissa DiMarzo:

Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to a press release issued by State Rep. Michael Day in which he has titled referencing himself: “Day Shaves Head to Support Childhood Cancer.”

I am not a political person and am not involved in politics in our town, but I feel the need to have my voice heard. I am the grateful mother of 6 children. I am also a nurse. I care deeply about children’s illnesses, and that’s what caught my attention, the reference to childhood cancer.

When I saw the story about Mr. Day shaving his head for cancer research, if I hadn’t known better I would have thought this was a noble act. However, just a few weeks ago I received notification that Rep. Michael Day and Senator Jason Lewis supporting legislation that allows for 3rd trimester abortions, removes parental consent for minors to have abortions, and effectively allows for infanticide in that babies born alive from 3rd trimester abortions would not be provided lifesaving medical care. As a nurse and mother, I was appalled. I couldn’t believe any normal human being - let alone elected officials would actually support such a law, but Mr. Day and Mr. Lewis do. Shaving your head for cancer research is commendable. However, it pales in comparison to the inhumane and cold late tern abortion laws Day and Lewis are sponsoring.

Recently I also opened the Stoneham paper and saw a photo of both Rep. Day and Senator Lewis taking the entire 5th grade class on a tour of the state house. Here they were smiling with all the children. But don’t be fooled by the hypocritical photo opportunities. Anyone who truly cares for children would not support laws that allow middle school children or children of any age to obtain an abortion without their parents even knowing, nor allow leaving new born babies to die after a failed abortion, nor would they support barbaric third trimester abortions. So please understand the press releases are a distraction, actions speak louder than photos.

Melissa DiMarzo, Valley Road