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Utah residents are blessed to have some of the finest health care in the nation. In fact, some people refer to Utah as the "Rochester of the West," comparing us to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. I personally appreciate our health care system because I am a cancer survivor and, as such, a beneficiary of the quality care available.
The Murray-based Deseret Foundation is a major player in supporting the health care industry. The foundation raises funds to sustain Intermountain hospitals such as LDS, Alta View, Riverton, Intermountain Medical Center and TOSH (The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital). These funds are necessary to fulfill Intermountain Healthcare's mission to be an exemplary healthcare system devoted to the science of medicine. The foundation ensures that medical professionals can provide the most technologically advanced care with competence and compassion.
I enjoyed my visit with Howard Van Boerum, foundation chairman, and Lori Piscopo, executive director. They explained that a primary focus of the Deseret Foundation is to provide resources to investigate the causes and discover cures for disease. It partners with generous donors to keep hospitals on the cutting edge of medical advancements. Contributions of all sizes are welcome and can offer medical professionals the opportunities to make important discoveries today that will build a healthier tomorrow.
Prior to my visit with Howard and Lori, I was already aware of the Deseret Foundation's important work. I am a past member of AMICUS, an organization that helps fund the foundation's programs and services. There are a variety of other ways to contribute to the foundation and assist in its important work in addition to AMICUS.
Utah does have a wonderful health care system. We should show our gratitude by supporting organizations like the Deseret Foundation that help grow our quality facilities and support the medical professionals working on our behalf.
