To my friends, supporters, and fellow veterans’ families —
I wanted to share something deeply meaningful I’ve recently learned.
Many of you know my campaign is dedicated to my father, Sgt. Richard Andrew Conn, who passed away after receiving care at the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.
What I didn’t fully know until now was just how connected my story is to the history of that hospital’s name — and the people behind it.
🇺🇸Robert J. Dole
Robert J. Dole was born in Russell, Kansas, in 1923. He served bravely in World War II, where he suffered severe injuries that left him with a lifelong disability. Despite these hardships, he dedicated decades of his life to public service — representing Kansas in the U.S. Senate and running for President.
Throughout his career, he was a fierce advocate for veterans, disability rights, and ensuring no one was left behind. The VA hospital in Wichita proudly bears his name because of his tireless work for those who served.
💙Elizabeth Dole
His wife, Elizabeth Dole, is a remarkable public servant in her own right. She served as a U.S. Senator and led the American Red Cross, an organization I was once honored to work for. Today, she continues her mission through the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, supporting military and veteran caregivers nationwide.
🫶🏼Why This Matters to Me
Learning this history has left me both inspired and determined.
My father, like Senator Dole, was a soldier who sacrificed for this country. He deserved a system that honored that sacrifice not just in words, but in action. Unfortunately, the very hospital named after Senator Dole failed my father — and, I believe, is failing other veterans too.
That’s why I’m fighting for The Conn Act, my proposed reforms to:
-unify the VA’s medical records system
-eliminate harmful e-consults for complex patients
-expand dental and burial benefits for veterans and families
-ensure accountability when care falls short
👏🏼Carrying Forward the Dole Legacy
I believe Robert and Elizabeth Dole would want these problems addressed. They spent their lives fighting for veterans, caregivers, and those who deserve dignity in healthcare.
I hope my work honors that legacy and helps push us toward a VA system that lives up to their vision — and to the sacrifices of heroes like my dad.
Please keep sharing my campaign, signing the petition, and raising awareness. Together, we can make sure the VA truly puts veterans first.
With gratitude and determination,
Trisha Lemuz
Daughter of Sgt. Richard Andrew Conn
#VeteransDeserveBetter #PassTheConnAct #DoleLegacy