It’s a heavy day, and I’m sad to write this. Not sure where to start.
In 2022, a lawyer recruited two people who took care of my Mom—an assistant and one of her dozen nurses—to resign and demand a million dollars each, or they would publish horrible things about her in a lawsuit. I refused. The lawsuits were filed. Luckily, the accusations are so sick, twisted, and outrageous that they refute themselves. There’s some weird sex stuff, and also claims that my Mom is racist. I am sad for whatever mind could even imagine such things.
I won’t link or quote them because they don’t deserve that, but the lawsuits have been part of the public record and available to anyone with a web browser since 2022. The lawyer sent them to every major media publication and gossip rag. You’re just hearing about them now because any journalist who spent five minutes calling around easily saw how spurious the claims are and didn’t run with the story. They’ve been dredged up as part of the smear campaign against me in my battle with Silver Lake and WP Engine.
My advice for any other founder: As you gain wealth this may happen to you with household staff as well. Never settle. It just creates an incentive for more people to make stuff up. Even if it’s messy, fight the claims in court as I am doing. It’s the only way to deter people trying to make a quick buck. These cases are common, and the media is used to them.
Now for some good news! I’m happy to report that since these two people left, my Mom has had no errors in her medication (previously, she had to be hospitalized twice and almost died because of medication errors). She’s back to the weight she was in her 30s and isn’t in a wheelchair all the time anymore. She’s just moved into a new home we’ve been remodeling together for the past 5 years. She still has 24/7 RNs, but the new nurses have been fantastic and feel like an extension of our family. We’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays together with my sister, lifelong family friends like the Ornelas family, Mom’s four dogs, and some of my fifteen godchildren who live in the area.
Hey Matt. Coming from someone who has been in a similar position and recently lost my mum to her many ailments, you have my sympathies.
And while I do not fully agree with your position and approach to the recent WP Engine situation, there is no place for these unrelated personal attacks.
Matt, it’s heartbreaking to read about the challenges you’ve faced, especially when they involve such personal and painful experiences. I admire your strength in standing up for what’s right and sharing your story so transparently. It’s a reminder that success often comes with unexpected battles, and your advice to other founders is invaluable. On a brighter note, I’m so glad to hear that your mom is doing better and that you’ll be able to enjoy the holidays with loved ones
I’m really sorry to see how much hurt and negativity are affecting you. It’s disheartening, especially when it feels like people are constantly bombarding you with false statements and hate. Envy and anger can make the world feel twisted, but I believe empathy, even though it’s rare, has the power to heal.
It’s tough to deal with everything when it’s coming at you nonstop. Just remember that protecting your mental health is so important. Stay strong and know that you’re not alone in this. Surround yourself with kindness whenever you can, it makes a real difference.
Lastly, I’m so glad to hear your mom is doing better. She’s been there for you all these years, and now you’re doing an amazing job protecting and supporting her, just like she did for you. Keep that love and strength going, it’s a special bond.