We are fortunate in the San Juan Islands to have Senator Kevin Ranker representing us in Olympia. I’ve known this for some time, but a recent interaction has confirmed that thought beyond my most optimistic expectations.

I’m the Executive Director of Four Winds * Westward Ho Camp in Deer Harbor. In the summer, we carry epinephrine auto-injectors in our first aid kits. When someone is having a severe allergic reaction, epinephrine is a life-saving medication, and minutes matter. According to the Oregon Health Authority, immediate injection of epinephrine is the single factor most likely to save a life under those circumstances. Furthermore, research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 25 percent of children have their first allergic reaction at school or while participating in out-of-school activities — such as camp.

Last summer, the legal ability of our local doctors to prescribe this medication to camp was called into question. I called Senator Ranker’s office, and they were extremely helpful and responsive. I’ve been working with his staff looking at laws from other states that allow camps and other out-of-school programs to have access to epinephrine. When the legislative session began a few weeks ago, Senator Ranker introduced SB 6421, a bill that would authorize camps and other entities to keep a stock of epinephrine auto injectors in collaboration with an emergency health care provider. Senator Ranker has organized a bipartisan group of cosponsors for the bill, and prospects look good for the bill to pass.

The story we’re used to hearing about government is not one in which an elected official hears about a constituent’s problem, recognizes it, and immediately gets about the business of solving it. Conventional wisdom aside, that story matches my experience working with Senator Ranker and his staff exactly. We are lucky to have him as our denator.

Paul Sheridan

Executive Director, Four Winds * Westward Ho Camp