As an innovator, I embody a spirit of creativity and dedication to improving lives across various sectors. My journey has been marked by a consistent drive to address and find solutions to pressing social issues through forward-thinking strategies. With a background that spans crime victim advocacy, eldercare, disability rights, and LGBTQ+ support, my diverse experiences seek to introduce meaningful changes in these fields.

Improving Innovations for Crime Victims

One of my most significant contributions has been in the realm of crime victim advocacy. Having experienced the deep emotional and psychological scars left by violent crimes, I have pioneered several support groups that provide not only emotional support, but also empower surviving crime victims through educational programs. My imaginative ideas and methodologies have been instrumental in helping many individuals meet their needs and lessen their burdens.

I vividly remember preparing a victim impact statement at the end of the trial for my father’s murder. It was a heart-wrenching task to recall everything we had lost as a family and convey it to the court. As my career progressed, I often thought about others facing the same ordeal and how challenging it is to write a victim impact statement during such a devastating time. Realizing I had both the writing skills and the personal experience, I knew I could help others navigate this difficult process.

And today, as a consultant specializing in victim impact writing assistance, I bring a unique blend of expertise to support crime victims in presenting their stories in court. By providing personalized guidance and support, my goal is to help surviving victims articulate their experiences with clarity and emotional depth, ensuring their voices are heard and their pain is properly acknowledged.

I’m often described as someone who doesn’t give up, thinks outside of the box, and comes up with ingenious ideas to give a new perspective on old and tired solutions.

Improving Innovations for Seniors

Having lived in and actively advocated for residents in independent living facilities, I identified critical gaps in the care and resources available to seniors. To address these issues, I devised a detailed proposal that educates administrative staff and corporate managers on the true needs of seniors. My initiative includes practical solutions to enhance the quality of life for residents, particularly those with significant medical, sensory, and cognitive impairments, ensuring that seniors receive the dignified and comprehensive care they deserve.

Establishing something to honor my mother was incredibly important to me. She passed away from COVID-19 on Thanksgiving Day 2020 while in a long-term care facility in Connecticut. Just a year before, I had retired and moved to South Carolina, leaving me unable to be with her in her final days and never getting the chance to say goodbye. I grieve not only for her loss but also for all the sacrifices she made for me, her first child, born with profound disabilities.

In tribute to her memory, I established the Patricia V. Gore Memorial Fund. This fund is dedicated to transportation enabling long-term care residents to attend legislative events, ensuring their voices are heard in the decision-making processes that impact their lives. Collaborating with the CT State Long Term Care Ombudsman, the fund has become a reality, creating a lasting legacy in my mother’s honor.

Improving Innovations for the Disability Community

My advocacy for disability rights is deeply personal, given my own experience with cerebral palsy. From a young age I have been driven to challenge the norms and push for greater inclusion and accessibility. I have been at the forefront of imaginative campaigns that promote safety and opportunities for people with disabilities. By raising awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities, I have inspired others to view disabilities not as limitations but as unique strengths that contribute to a richer, more diverse society.

I have never wanted to be defined by my disability, it is part of who I am, but not something that has held me back in accomplishing what I wanted out of life. I have discovered over the years innovative ways to improve my situation regardless if it was state-of-the-art leg braces, crutches, or even adaptive shoes and furniture. I love being able to creatively promote these companies for the benefit of others who may need them as well.

For me, innovation is about continuously seeking better ways to serve and uplift those who are often marginalized. It involves not just identifying problems but also creating sustainable solutions that drive long-term change. My multifaceted approach and unwavering commitment have made me a respected figure in my fields of expertise. As I continue to push boundaries and explore new avenues for impact, I remain dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. My story is one of resilience, creativity, and a belief in the power of innovation to transform lives.