Langbehn-Pond Family
In February 2007, Janice Langbehn and her children were turned away at a Miami hospital while her partner Lisa Pond lay dying. Cindi Creager, while serving as GLAAD’s Director of National News, helped Langbehn share her story with the nation in numerous news outlets, including The New York Times, which prompted the Obama Administration to change federal policy with respect to hospital visitation by same-sex couples.
Janice Langbehn receiving Presidential Citizen’s Medal from President Barack Obama
Langbehn also won the Presidential Citizen’s Medal for having the bravery to share her story and provoke change. Cindi Creager media trained Langbehn following the tragedy and has worked closely with Langbehn for several years. Langbehn credits Cindi for helping her find her voice and articulate it confidently on a national stage, and invited Cindi to accompany her to the White House when she received the Presidential Citizen’s Medal.
Janice Langbehn and Cindi Creager at The White House
Langben shared her poignant story at the 2011 GLAAD Awards in NewYork, Los Angeles and San Francisco, and invited Cindi Creager and Rainie Cole as her special guests at the New York GLAAD Awards.
Janice Langbehn (center) with Rainie Cole and Cindi Creager at 2011 New York GLAAD Awards
Janice Langbehn is a true American hero and continues to inspire millions with her story of courage in the face of adversity, and her determination to change the world for the better. We are blessed to have her in our lives.
