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My name is Cara Caranci and I’m running for Town Council.
I grew up in North Attleboro. In the late 1980’s and early 1990’s my family was active with the Little North Attleboro League. My family’s business, Caranci’s Bakery sponsored a team that my dad and my older brother coached, my younger brother played on the team and I kept the book recording each batter’s at bat with balls and strikes and batting averages. By 12 years old I had developed organizational and leadership skills to keep track of a dozen 10-11 year olds on the bench and make sure the right one is on deck and not lost at the concession stand or playing with grass hoppers.
I went to North Attleboro High School. I was a yearbook editor and sang in the chorus. I was involved in theater and became Sound and Special FX Tech head. Being a Foley Artist was a a lot of fun. I lettered in theater and was inducted into International Thespian Society. I went to the Regional and MA State Science Fair. The essay about my experiences with the science fair helped me get into a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science program. I graduated from NAHS in 1995 where my experiences grew my communication and people skills.
I went to Husson (College) University in Bangor, ME and graduated with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy (MSPT) 2001. During my final semester I went blind with optic neuritis (my immune system attacked my optic nerves). I had to drop my classes and focus on treatment. The only thing I saved that semester was my research. I was lucky because of my education I understood what was going on and was able to use the big words to explain my symptoms and be taken seriously. Optic neuritis is a big red flag for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) combined with other random symptoms I received a diagnosis quickly. I gained a new perspective for patient and medical professional interactions. I volunteered with the National MS Society. I volunteered on fundraising committees. I talked with newly diagnosed and helped them understand all the big words doctors were throwing at them. I learned in school the best clinicians talk with their patients using a 5th grade vocabulary. A patient can’t give informed consent if they can’t understand the big words. I also organized continuing education for medical professionals to help them better understand symptoms and communication with their patients.
I have about 45 years in small business experience. I grew up in a 3rd generation family business. For over 80 years, Caranci’s Bakery made Italian bread and rolls for restaurants, caterers, retail, and whole sale. By the time I could walk and talk, I was stocking shelves with bread and talking to customers. When I could count, I was using a register and making change. At age 10, l was there every weekend. When I got my license, I was driving a standard and could back up a box truck or step van to a loading dock for supply pickups or deliveries.
I have spent most of my life dealing with customers, vendors, employees, accountants, and lawyers. I learned that there needs to be a hard line between Friends/Family and Business/Money. Whether they are accountants, lawyers, medical professionals, or politicians, communication is essential. If a person talks down to you, talks at you, refuses to simplify what they are saying, or listen to your concerns, that person is not the best for your interests. People need to be their own advocate and if they can’t be I want to be that advocate.