I came across your article on the election race for Island County Coroner on the internet. I have not been a resident of Island County for many years, but my family has resided there since 1966. My daughter’s was one of the 10 autopsies Dr. Robert Bishop attended last month.

She is not a statistic to me, her three children, sister, stepdad, brother-in-law nor grandparents. I have no doubt the results of Dr. Bishop’s investigation are professional. But more importantly, Dr. Bishop treated me and my family with respect, compassion and dignity during the worst time of our lives. That was more important to us than a strict clinical approach to her death.

He was available over the weekend, by cell phone, to answer questions, and called us with immediate preliminary results to answer some of our why/how questions. He took time to talk with me on more than one occasion and offer comfort during this tragic loss. He even rescued her newly adopted kitten for us.

We continue to grieve, but would prefer Dr. Bishop’s approach, to the cold clinical approach that seems offered by his opponent. Thank you Dr. Bishop for your kindness and compassion during this difficult time.

Danette Therkildsen

Seattle