The state Senate will honor Frazier during ceremonies at the state Capitol on Monday.
The Stephanie Marie Frazier Memorial Foundation sponsors the Network of Care program, which provides packages of non-perishable foods in local hospitals for families of unexpectedly hospitalized children. These packages provide strength, support and comfort to family members keeping vigil over a hospitalized child.
"I am inspired by Janet Frazier's ability to build an invaluable community resource in the wake of a family tragedy," said Torlakson. "Their focus on helping families who are keeping vigil over a child who has been unexpectedly hospitalized has addressed a need that few people consider until they find themselves in a similar situation. Janet has worked with her husband Jim to make our community a better place for parents and children."
Janet helped to create The Network of Care in the wake of a family tragedy. On Dec. 16, 2000, she and her husband Jim learned that their two daughters were involved in a horrible automobile accident on Highway 50 in El Dorado County.
Their oldest daughter Stephanie (for whom the Stephanie Marie Frazier Memorial Foundation is named) was killed in the accident. Their other daughter, Lindsey, was critically injured.
While grieving over Stephanie's death and keeping vigil during Lindsey's operation, Janet and Jim were not finding the time to eat and were becoming physically weak. A nurse offered them part of her dinner, and this kind act inspired Janet and Jim to work together to establish The Network of Care to help families facing similar circumstances.
The organization continues to grow and now provides care packages to families in need at 31 hospitals. In recognition of their vision, Janet and Jim Frazier were awarded the 2005 Bay Area Jefferson Award for Public Service.
Since their daughters' accident, Janet and Jim have also been tireless advocates for safety improvements for the section of Highway 50 where the accident occurred. They have worked with Torlakson, Senator Dave Cox and the California Department of Transportation to ensure safety improvements were made to the highway.
The Woman of the Year ceremonies in the State Capitol will include a presentation on the floor of the State Senate and a breakfast reception with Lt. Governor John Garamendi.
The 40 members of the State Senate and the 80 members of the State Assembly each select a Woman of the Year to recognize those who have contributed time and energy to community causes. Torlakson represents the Seventh Senate District, which includes most of Contra Costa County.
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