Christine Rudy

Share your military spouse story:
My husband and I have been married for 14 years, all of which he has been serving his country. The first 4 years of our marriage we were dual military. My husband deployed months after we were married. We were married 4 1/2 years before we welcomed our first child. Magen was born at 24 weeks gestations and was born with amniotic band syndrome. Her right foot was amputated and she remained in the NICU for 78 days. Then we were blessed with two more children. All of my children have received speech therapy. I support my husband with a proud heart. Serving the country has a deep root in both of our family trees.

Describe any leadership positions or provide an overview of your leadership contributions within the military community.
My husband is an NCO in the service. I know that when his soldiers were in need it wasn't just his responsibility it was mine. I love to help when needed. I have given needed supplies to help newly wed lower ranking soldiers. I have provided childcare when needed at the drop of a hat.

What programs or projects are you currently involved in that support the needs of military families?
I have been part of the FRG when my husband was active duty. We participated in all the meetings and activities they provided for each of the families. I was also active duty military. I am medically retired due to injuries sustained while serving.

What moments best reflect your impact on building inclusive community among military spouses?
Since my daughter was born with special needs, that opened a new chapter in my life. She received different types of therapies from the day she came home from the NICU. I was active duty when she was born, but soon was medically retired out of the service. I began school to study to become a speech language pathologist assistant. I currently work full time as a Speech Language Pathologist Assistant in a local childcare center and in the private sector.

Identify your main advocacy effort and describe your personal connection to the cause.
Being in the field of work that I am in, I advocate for early intervention when it comes to child development. I know from personal experience that the earlier intervention is administered the better the chances of success.

Summarize your advocacy outreach strategies, including any events, media involvement, or other communication efforts.
I spread my message of my platform in my community just by doing my job. When I come into contact with teachers, parents, or administrators I educate them on the importance of early intervention and carry over with the strategies that I work on.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
If I become AFI Military Spouse of the Year, I would like to draw attention to children with physical needs such as prosthetics and the importance of early intervention when it comes to children's development.