Tamara Grigsby
Several factions of the community have united in various ways to express support for State Representative Tamara Grigsby and her family following an announcement from her office informing the public of her serious illness.
On Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011 the Grigsby’s office released a statement informing the public that she had been quitely battling a serious illness that had taken a downward turn. At that time she was in intensive care, and later a coma. It was revealed later that she had been diagnosed with cancer, and had been fighting it privately. Legislators held a prayer vigil for her recovery on Monday, Dec. 26, 2011.
On Wed., Dec. 28, young leaders from throughout Milwaukee hosted a Get Well Celebration & Benefit in honor of State Representative Tamara Grigsby. Friends, constituents, community partners, and colleagues of Representative Grigsby were invited to celebrate Tamara’s leadership and wish her a full recovery.
The event was been organized by a cadre of young organizers who have worked with Representative Grigsby on various progressive campaigns over the years. The Celebration and Benefit took place at Chic Lounge, 131 N Jackson St.,.
Discussions of how to best support Representative Grigsby in her recovery began last week around the dinner table as young organizers, artists, poets, community activists, and elected officials were gathered for a holiday dinner. Event organizers believe it is important to recognize the special role Representative Grigsby has played in helping to develop Milwaukee’s young leadership. In the end, organizers decided the best way to honor Tamara is to support the causes and issues she is deeply committed to.
The event included performances dedicated to Representative Grigsby by Dasha Kelly of the Stillwaters Collective and Muhibb Dyer from Flood the Hood with Dreams. In addition, participants also had the opportunity to make personal get-well cards for Representative Grisgby.
Donations were accepted in Representative Grigsby’s honor to advance issues important to her. The suggested donation was $20, but any future amount will be greatly appreciated. All proceeds donated in Representative Grigsby’s name will go to charities and organizations selected by Tamara and her family.
For more information on donations even if you were not able to make the event please contact Reggie Moore, (414) 375-9166.
The most recent update to Grigsby’s condition that came from her state office as The Courier went to press was the following:
“Rep. Grigsby remains in critical condition this evening and continues to receive treatment in intensive care. While her condition is critical, Tamara is stable and continues to make slow improvement. Family and friends are encouraged and remain confident she will fully recover.
“Tamara’s family is standing by her side and appreciates the overwhelming support shown by friends, colleagues, and citizens throughout Wisconsin. Words alone cannot express enough gratitude for the kindness shown to Tamara during this difficult time.”