Back to Success Stories - Gratitude and Global Impact: A Public Health Biologist’s Story

After 23 years as a public health biologist at the CDC, a recipient devoted her career to combating infectious diseases and strengthening global health systems. She played a pivotal role in the monkeypox outbreak response, developing animal models, studying disease progression, and contributing to therapeutics that later became part of the Strategic National Stockpile. 

One of her proudest achievements was helping to build laboratory diagnostic, surveillance, and quality management systems in ten countries. These efforts led to a remarkable 52% reduction in new HIV infections and significant improvements in healthcare quality, HIV testing provider proficiency, and national facility certification across southern and eastern Africa, creating lasting improvements in community health. 

When she was unexpectedly terminated and financial challenges arose, the support she received from the CDC Mutual Aid came at just the right time. The funds helped her keep up with her mortgage and eased a heavy burden. “The financial assistance has been a major help” she shared and truly lifted a weight off her shoulders. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who, in her words, “handled my case with such care and empathy.”

Her story is a reminder that even in difficult times, there are people who truly care and want to help you find your footing again.