Tiffany Smiley is a woman of many talents and roles. She is a former nurse, an entrepreneur, a motivational speaker, and a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate in Washington. She is also a wife, a mother, and a caregiver. She has a remarkable story of resilience, courage, and leadership that she wants to share with the world.
This article tells her story in detail. It covers her early life, education, career, family, and political aspirations. It also reveals her challenges, achievements, and vision for the future. The book is based on her personal experiences, interviews, and public statements. It is an inspiring and informative read for anyone who wants to learn more about this remarkable woman and her journey.
Tiffany Smiley biography, Early Life
Tiffany Smiley, born in 1983 and raised on farms in Washington, grew up in a close-knit family that valued work, faith, and service. The youngest of four siblings, Tiffany’s parents were farmers and teachers, instilling in her a love for learning and a sense of responsibility to her community. Tiffany excelled academically and socially, participating in activities such as student council, choir, drama, and soccer, even playing on the Columbia Basin College team.
Tiffany wanted to be a nurse because of her grandmother’s tales about working as a nurse during World War II and because she had seen the care nurses gave to her father after he had a heart attack. She pursued nursing at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, where she balanced her studies with social and religious activities. During this time, she met Scott Smiley, a member of the Army ROTC program at Gonzaga University. They began dating and developed a deep love for each other.
Tiffany graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and eagerly started her career as a triage nurse at Northwest Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates. Proud of her role in assisting women and their families during crucial times, she looked forward to marrying Scott, who had been commissioned as an Army lieutenant. The couple planned to marry in the summer of 2005 and start their life together.
Marriage and Family
Tiffany Smiley and Scotty Smiley, who first met at Whitworth University, exchanged vows on December 18, 2005. Their shared faith, dedication to service, and love for adventure strengthened their bond during two years of dating, leading to an engagement in 2004. Relocating to Fort Benning, Georgia, and later to Fort Lewis, Washington, they navigated the challenges of military life, with Tiffany working as a triage nurse while Scotty prepared for deployment to Iraq.
Tragedy struck in April 2006 when Scotty suffered severe injuries, including the loss of both eyes, in a suicide car bombing in Mosul, Iraq. Tiffany, undeterred, rushed to his side in Germany, becoming his steadfast advocate and caregiver. As Scotty underwent surgeries and embarked on a difficult recovery at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., Tiffany remained by his side, offering unwavering support through physical, mental, and emotional challenges.
Facing Scotty’s depression and questions about faith and purpose, Tiffany stood as a pillar of strength, leaving her nursing job to support him full-time. The couple decided to start a family, welcoming three sons—Grady, Graham, and Brady—amidst the uncertainties. Despite obstacles, Tiffany and Scotty instilled values of love, faith, and service in their children, finding joy in parenthood.
Now happily married for 18 years, the Smileys have weathered trials and triumphs, growing stronger as a couple and family. Their inspiring journey of hope, resilience, and faith has not only touched lives but has also made a positive impact through advocacy and charitable contributions. Tiffany and Scotty stand as living proof of the transformative power of love, courage, and grace.
Scott’s Injury and Recovery
On April 6, 2005, Tiffany Smiley received devastating news that her husband, Scotty, had been severely injured in a car bomb explosion in Mosul, Iraq, resulting in the loss of his eyesight. Tiffany, demonstrating strength and unwavering faith, immediately flew to Germany to be by his side. Scotty, a platoon leader in the Infantry Division, had acted swiftly to protect his team, firing warning shots before the car exploded, causing severe injuries.
Reunited in Germany, Tiffany supported Scotty through his journey of recovery, witnessing surgeries, emotional moments, and the harsh reality of his permanent blindness. Refusing to let despair take over, Tiffany became Scotty’s caregiver, coach, and cheerleader, attending to his needs, accompanying him to appointments, and motivating him to find new meaning in life. Despite difficulties, there were moments of blessings and miracles that illuminated their journey.
After two weeks in Germany, Scotty was transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., where his recovery included surgeries, therapies, and treatments for physical and mental well-being. Battling depression, anxiety, and PTSD, Scotty and Tiffany fought for his military career, facing bureaucratic hurdles but ultimately succeeding. Scotty became the Army’s first blind company commander, earned an MBA at Duke University, and received accolades such as the MacArthur Leadership Award and the Bronze Star Medal.
The couple pursued their passions, engaging in daring experiences and authoring the book “Hope Unseen,” sharing their journey of hope, resilience, and faith. They became motivational speakers, spreading messages of bravery, empathy, and kindness. Additionally, they founded the organization Hope Unseen to assist injured veterans and their families, showcasing that blindness should never be a barrier to leading a fulfilling life.
Hope Unseen and Advocacy
Tiffany and Scotty Smiley, inspired by their own journey of overcoming adversity, have dedicated themselves to spreading a message of hope. They authored the bestselling book “Hope Unseen” in 2010, chronicling their resilience and triumphs amid challenges. The narrative, grounded in faith, has touched readers, including military chaplains and counselors.
In 2011, they founded Hope Unseen, a nonprofit aiding wounded veterans and families through financial support, emotional assistance, and community-building events. The organization, volunteer-driven and supported by donors, aims to foster healing and growth among veterans.
Their advocacy efforts, recognized by individuals and organizations, have led to speaking engagements at various venues, including with notable figures like former President George W. Bush and former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. They advocate for vital veteran-related issues, earning accolades such as the Army’s MacArthur Leadership Award, the ESPY Award for Best Outdoor Athlete, and the Citizen Honors Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
Writing and Speaking Career
Tiffany Smiley, a passionate writer and speaker, shares her inspiring story through various mediums. Co-authoring the bestselling book “Hope Unseen” in 2010 with her husband, Scotty, earned them critical acclaim, including the Christopher Award. Tiffany continues her writing journey, contributing thought-provoking articles and blog posts on diverse topics for platforms like Fox News and The Wall Street Journal.
Her podcast, “More Than Me,” features conversations with guests overcoming obstacles. Tiffany’s speaking career, initiated in 2010 alongside Scotty, spans venues from churches to media outlets like CBS and CNN. Their motivational message centers on courage, compassion, and grace in overcoming adversity. Tiffany has also flourished as a solo speaker, addressing women-centric topics at conferences and organizations such as the American Heart Association.
She’s been recognized for her influential voice and has spoken at prominent events, including the Republican National Convention and the Conservative Political Action Conference, discussing personal and professional experiences, values, and political beliefs. Tiffany is in high demand, known for her distinct voice and impactful presence.
Senate Campaign and Platform
Tiffany Smiley, a newcomer to the political scene in Washington, is running for Patty Murray’s vacant U.S. Senate seat. Tiffany’s campaign focuses on four pillars: freedom, opportunity, security, and unity in an effort to restore values she thinks current policies are endangering.
In terms of freedom, Tiffany advocates for reducing government size, tax cuts, and safeguarding rights such as freedom of speech and the right to bear arms. For opportunity, she focuses on fostering innovation, education, and a dynamic economy, supporting trade practices, and emphasizing STEM education and broadband access.
Security is a top priority for Tiffany, who aims to strengthen defense capabilities, secure borders, and oppose agreements like the Iran deal. Her stance on unity emphasizes mending societal divisions through respect, civility, and cooperation, promoting bipartisanship and dialogue.
Tiffany’s platform, which is a reflection of her experiences and values, sets her apart from Patty Murray by highlighting a new viewpoint and dedication to addressing pressing problems that Washington and America are facing.
Election Results and Future Plans
Tiffany Smiley’s U.S. Senate campaign in Washington concluded with a defeat on November 8, 2022, as incumbent Democrat Patty Murray secured her term. Despite receiving 43% of the vote, Tiffany gracefully conceded and thanked her family, team, supporters, and the people of Washington for the opportunity to share her vision.
Proud of her historic campaign as the first woman to run for U.S. Senate in Washington and the first military spouse to seek federal office nationwide, Tiffany remains committed to advocating for her state and the nation. Her campaign, centered on freedom, opportunity, security, and unity, made a significant impact, mobilizing diverse voter groups and bringing attention to pressing issues. Despite facing challenges in a politically leaning state, Tiffany ran with hope, contributing to a movement of women challenging barriers in the 2022 elections.
Conclusion
Tiffany Smiley is a woman who has faced obstacles while pursuing her dreams and serving her country. Her life has been filled with experiences ranging from being a nurse and a devoted mother to being a wounded warrior, embracing roles as a writer and speaker, and venturing into politics and leadership. Her inspiring story of hope, resilience, and faith has touched the lives of many. Through her work, advocacy, and charitable endeavors, she has made an impact on others. Tiffany Smiley embodies the essence of hope unseen.
The biography of Tiffany Smiley stands as a testament to the power of love, bravery, and grace. It also reflects the values she holds, the experiences that have shaped her character, and the goals she strives for in life. This biography introduces her as a voice with a perspective—a leader who prioritizes people over partisanship. It beautifully portrays her courage, compassion, and unwavering convictions.
