As a long time community volunteer, EvergreenHealth advocate and board member, it was an honor to be appointed to fill the open seat on the Hospital District Board of which I am now running to retain. My wife, Judy, and I have lived on English Hill for 35 years. EvergreenHealth has been our family hospital from the time our kids were young to the birth of our two grandkids. I have witnessed the important role Evergreen plays in our growing community and I am committed to its continued well-being.

Evergreen was front and center During the COVID-19 pandemic. The hard work and dedication of all—nurses, physicians, medical technicians, maintenance, and administration—as a team they worked together in the most difficult of circumstances. Our ability to survive during this crisis was a testament how leadership and front-line staff work together to meet our community needs. My commitment is to continue to foster this team-based approach to patient care, the wellbeing of our staff and transparency to our community.

In addition to my 15-years on the EvergreenHealth Foundation Board, I have served on Boards of Hopelink, Rotary, and United Way. My background in law and as successful business owner, I, most importantly, want to be of service to my community hospital. In doing so I will work collaboratively in helping steer Evergreen through whatever crisis might come our way so that we remain financially strong and continue to meet your needs.

Hospitals across the State are in difficult financial positions and Evergreen is no exception. Insurance companies and Medicare are limiting reimbursements, yet patients expect and deserve the highest level of care. It takes experience to navigate these waters and I have that experience. In my position on the Board, I work tirelessly to put the patient and our employees first.

Being a woman meat cutter apprentice, I’m no stranger to hard work and what it takes to break down barriers. As commissioner, I’m able to bring a fresh perspective and deep passion for positive change to healthcare by creating a system that fosters collaboration, promotes mental health and creates connections toward a stronger, healthier community.

I’m dedicated to advocating for the hardworking employees within the hospital. I know firsthand the compassionate, quality care these professionals provide. By ensuring they have a positive, empowering work environment we can attract and retain the best talent so they can continue providing exceptional and timely care to our communities. 

Mental health is crucial to overall wellbeing and I understand the importance of these services. I will push to expand the mental health services provided by the hospital and ensure accessible, quality care for all. By breaking down stigmas and providing vital care to patients and their families we can create a supportive and compassionate environment for those in need.

I believe community engagement is crucial to building a stronger, more resilient healthcare system and I will work to create stronger relationships between the hospital, local organizations, residents, and healthcare providers to ensure services provided by the hospital align with the communities requirements.

I’m proud to be endorsed by the King County Democrats, the Eastside Firefighters and leaders who know me and my work like Attorney General Bob Ferguson and city council members throughout the district. Most importantly, I am proud to have earned the support of SEIU 1199NW, the Union of nurses and health care professionals at Evergreen.

I humbly ask for your vote. Together we can create a hospital that not only provides top notch healthcare, but truly reflects the values of respect, compassion, and collaboration.