East Washingtonian - Your Hometown News Source

Garfield County Hospital District is proud to announce December's Employee of the Month, Helen Bragg, Environmental Services. Helen was nominated by her co-workers who state, "She is always friendly and goes above and beyond in her job."

She was born and raised in England, in the beautiful southwestern rural town of Avebury Coe nestled in Wiltshire County. The population, Helen estimates, has eight homes, one pub and one church, located six miles outside of Marlborough. Helen's family ran and operated a dairy farm where she says her love of animals derived. "My father was very much into taking in unwanted pets," a trait that Helen inherited. From a young boy her father worked in the coal mines, until they were no longer in operation, and rescued 30 "pit ponies" (equivalent to Shetland Ponies) used for labor that slated for slaughter. "My mother's approach with animals was a bit different. She bred Corgis as a business but did have some that were personal pets." Some of her fondest memories were the unique animals her family took care of such as "a one-legged duck, a one-eyed pig--you name it, he brought it home." One of the most interesting, "obnoxious" but humorous animals in her family's arsenal is a pet parrot that previously resided in the pubs off the South Hampton docks for two or three years where he picked up some very colorful language. That parrot is still living today in his 70s. "We had a very entertaining household," recalls Helen.

Her strong work ethic developed while working on the farm and she landed her very first job at age 13 cleaning dishes in a restaurant, and later was promoted to a cook. After graduating from St. John's School in Marlborough, she enrolled in culinary school for a year and realized "it wasn't for me" and began working for an animal rescue center, RSPCA. True to her heritage, she followed in her father's footsteps and spent the next 12 years taking care of and rehoming animals of all kinds. "Most people think RSPCA take in dogs but they take in everything, they never refuse an animal, and they are all over England." "Being able to take something that is so badly damaged and show it true love" was the most rewarding moments. "It was a fantastic job!" During this time, she felt compelled to apply for veterinary school for five years, training under the veterinarian at RSPCA.

As life happens, Helen's goals shifted to yet another very important role in her life, becoming a wife, a mother, and making the monumental move from the United Kingdom to the United States. Helen worked in the retail industry for a few years but changed career paths when she was offered a career in dentistry as a certified dental assistant working alongside Dr. Ekes and Dr. Bandstand in Lewiston that spanned over 16 years. "I loved that job and my contact with people."

Helen and her family were drawn to the northwest for its four seasons and reminiscence of home and the community of Pomeroy was an easy choice. "The people here welcomed us with open arms, welcomed my kids and were willing to give us a chance and a job. That's a lot to be said from a community that doesn't know you from Adam." She was hired almost immediately at Pomeroy Foods and also worked at the PF Express for 15 years. We had a really fantastic crew that was more like a family."

-Submitted photo

Helen Bragg

Helen became employed with hospital district in November of 2022 and immediately was recognized for being an excellent employee. "She goes the extra mile and does it was a smile," said a co-worker. Helen's attention to detail does not go unnoticed. "Helen does a great job in her housekeeping duties. You always know it's done right." She makes sure things are clean and efficient." One of Helen's most outstanding attributes is her ability to make everyone feel welcome the moment you meet her. "She always greets you with a friendly smile. Her sweet disposition is contagious. She is an awesome worker and is a joy to work with. Love her accent!"

When asked what she likes most about her job, she replied, "I love the residents! Giving an encouraging word, a much-needed hug and simple little things like that can completely change their day. I feel like I am able to give something back to the community that made us feel so welcome." On behalf of GCHD, we give our appreciation to Helen for joining our team and for all she does.