The DC Department of Health today extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Effi Barry, succumbed today after a courageous battle with leukemia. She was 62.

Ms. Barry faced the end of her life with a grace and elegance that were not only the hallmarks of her tenure as DC’s first lady, but characteristic of her contributions here at DOH.

Since joining the Department of Health in the fall of 2005, Effi’s efforts were passionately focused on addressing the disparities in access to health care for citizens living East of the River.  She began by managing a grant project, initiated by then-Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent Gray to expand HIV service capacity among community-based organizations and churches in Wards 7 and 8.

Following the success of this project, Effi began working with the DOH Director's Office to expand participation in capacity building throughout all areas East of the River. In addition to her work with the DOH, Effi sought to bring attention to the need for more minorities to donate badly needed bone marrow.

Although she will be missed, Effi’s spirit remains an enduring presence here at DOH, and the dedication and commitment that informed her work, will continue despite her absence.