About Gabby

Former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords is no stranger to a tough fight. She fought for the best interests of Arizonans when she ran for the US House as a Democrat in a longtime red district—and won. She fought to survive after she was shot, and continues to battle her way through her ongoing recovery. And, as the leader of Giffords, she fights, every day, to end gun violence in this country.

GABBY’S STORY

Gabby has faced remarkable barriers, and she’s broken through them time and time again. As a local business owner, a member of Congress, and a gun violence survivor, she’s learned what it takes to create impactful change.

A Life Dedicated to Public Service

First representing her community in the Arizona legislature, Gabby quickly sought higher office and won a US House seat in 2006—making her a trailblazer in more ways than one. She fought for the best interests of her constituents, and her popularity stemmed from her extraordinary ability to bring people together and her unwillingness to shy away from tough decisions.

Words once come easily; today I struggle to speak. But I have not lost my voice. America needs all of us to speak out, even when you have to fight to find the words.

Gabby Giffords

GABBY TODAY

Many of Gabby’s interests have been shaped by her ongoing recovery from being shot in the head in 2011. Activities like playing the French horn and riding her bike aid her healing process, and she co-founded two organizations to help others who have been impacted by her struggles.

Fighting to End Gun Violence

After the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary, Gabby said enough was enough and founded the organization today known as Giffords. As a national leader on gun violence prevention, she’s working to build the safer future our children deserve.

Aphasia Awareness

Before she was shot, Gabby loved to talk—but aphasia changed how she communicates. For many, the speech disorder can be isolating. That’s why Gabby co-founded the Tucson-based nonprofit Friends of Aphasia, which helps people with aphasia find the support and community that can make a difference.

Photo: Cassidy Araiza

Music & Physical Therapy

Music, physical therapy, and cycling have been pillars of Gabby’s recovery, providing a source of strength for her mind, body, and spirit. At the annual El Tour de Tucson, friends often say it’s hard to keep up with her on her bike.

Photo: Cassidy Araiza

GET IN TOUCH

If you have a story of overcoming obstacles that you’d like to share, or if Gabby’s story has touched or inspired you in some way, please drop us a line.