In August 2004 I journeyed to Kansas City to do a benefit with George Tiller to raise funds for his political action committee, ProKanDo.

His ever present opponents knew where we were and circled the house with a truck carrying large photographs of fetuses.

About fifty brave supporters gathered. I spoke about the importance of being politically strong and giving backbone to our elected representatives.

George then spoke. He roared, “Tiller, George, First Lieutenant, reporting for duty!” George told of his days as a Navy Surgeon and, when his parents were killed in a plane accident, that he was discharged from the navy to take over his father’s solo medical practice. His patients soon let him know that his father had performed abortions and pleaded with him to continue. George realized how necessary safe and legal abortion was once he heard of a patient dying from an illegal abortion. So, George continued his father’s practice.

His clinic brochure said on the cover: “Kindness, Courtesy, Justice, Love, Respect.” George said, “Women and families are intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, and ethically competent to struggle with complex health issues — including abortion — and come to decisions that are appropriate for themselves.”

George was a hero in our Cause, but especially to all the women he helped over the years. He will be missed.