Letter from Tymothie A. Hale

To whom it may concern,

It has come to my attention that Kim De Serpa is running for Second District Supervisor in Santa Cruz County, California, and there are not enough words to express the positive impact an individual of her stature could have in such a position. A public leader’s priority should be to understand and advocate for the needs of their community. As a social worker for Dignity Health, Kim embodied this role for many years, demonstrating an exemplary commitment to the overall health and social well-being of Santa Cruz County residents. Not only was she compassionate in her approach to realizing the needs of her clients, but she also went above and beyond to provide timely, innovative solutions personally tailored to their situations.

She has also played a pivotal role in my personal road to recovery and success, post-spinal cord injury, over the past ten years. She has provided access to countless services and resources that have allowed me to meet all my personal needs, including gaining access to medication, medical services, and personal goals. She even went out of her way to write a letter of recommendation for a scholarship I earned to attend the University of California, Santa Cruz. Whenever I need help, Kim De Serpa is there.

For example, in May 2014, a motor vehicle collision left me paralyzed from the elbows down, stripping away my personal independence and autonomy within the community. After I was released from the hospital, I lost my job and apartment due to my inability to perform physical labor, and I was living with family on a temporary basis. Suddenly, I received three weeks’ notice stating that if I did not find an alternative living situation, I would be dropped off in front of Dominican Hospital as “their burden.” Fortunately, in my greatest hour of need, Kim was there to prevent me from being forced into, at worst, destitution, or at best, institutionalized care. She worked tirelessly, dedicating several hours of both her professional and personal time, to expedite access to a housing voucher and successfully helped me obtain residency before the deadline, despite all odds. Most importantly, thanks to her efforts, I was able to raise my children in a home rather than a visitation room. If anyone personifies the definition of a terrific leader, it is Kim De Serpa.

With highest regards,

Tymothie A. Hale