In December 2006, a torrential rainstorm hit Seattle. Tragic circumstances found Kate Fleming, a celebrated recording artist, trapped in her basement studio. Her spouse of nine years, Charlene Strong, returned home to find Kate sealed behind the studio door as the waters rose. Her efforts to free Kate ended when the water reached ceiling level. Rushed to the hospital, the ER staff from Kate’s side unless she received permission from a ‘blood relative.’ Time was lost as Charlene made frantic calls to Kate’s family. Kate died minutes after Charlene was granted permission. After facing this loss and the humiliation of a funeral director’s bigotry, Charlene decided to take a stand. She contacted members of Washington’s legislature, who at the time were debating Domestic Partnership rights.