THE UTAH AMICUS

Introducing Christine B. Helfrich

The Utah Amicus has already had two postings inspired by Christine. I am grateful that such a quailty and dignified person would join me on this journey. My first meeting with Christine was at the Utah State Democratic Convention while adressing her caucus. I have been impressed ever since. Christine keeps me informed on health care issues and reform; it would be a shame not to share her wisdom with you.

Meet Christine in her own words.

I am a 55 year old native Utahn. Following graduation from college I worked as a child welfare worker for the state of Utah for 6 years before doing a long stint in the pharmaceutical industry (22 years). It was during my time working for Big Pharma that I developed most of my concerns about access to and cost of health care in this country. For the last 4 years I have worked in clinical research. I am currently Regulatory Administrator of Clinical Trials at Huntsman Cancer Institute, a job I love so much I would probably do it for free!

I am married to Peter Helfrich who works in bank marketing. My daughter is 37 years old and works for the State Health Department with the Utah Cancer Action Network. My 19 year old stepson Andrew is a freshman at Weber State College where he is studying to become a paramedic. I also have a delightful 10 year old grandson who is a 4th grader at Rowland Hall-St. Mark’s School.

I developed the desire to start a Health Care Reform Caucus with the State Democratic Party after noting the number of health care professionals who were energized the last election cycle to participate in county and state conventions. They have genuine concerns about the growing number of uninsured patients, sky-rocketing pharmaceutical costs and the lack of government attention to fixing either of the former. I am a novice at this and hope that fellow democrats will step forward to assist in raising public awareness of the scope and consequences of these problems.