Darlene Christy, a native of South Philly now residing in Tampa Bay, has built a remarkable career journey, ultimately finding her calling in patient advocacy. Her professional trajectory commenced with a 30-day temp assignment, leading to a dynamic career in both qualitative and quantitative research since 1987.
With a focus on healthcare research, Darlene became an independent research consultant, specializing in recruiting physicians for focus groups and various studies. Over fifteen years, she conducted ethnographic research and on-site interviews in medical education research, emphasizing improved communication in patient consultations and health outcomes.
Darlene’s expertise expanded into healthcare field projects, where she became certified in specimen collections. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Transportation, she processed random sample collections for U.S. Coast Guard, airline flight crews, and other DOT workers. She also served as a preferred independent specimen collector for Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Medtox, and DNA Diagnostics, contributing significantly to impactful healthcare initiatives.
In 2021, Darlene faced a personal health crisis when her husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer. During his intensive care unit stay, Darlene undertook the journey to become a Board Certified Patient Advocate, leveraging her healthcare knowledge to navigate the complex system, coordinate care, and act as a liaison between providers.
Darlene’s commitment to patient advocacy strengthened through experiences as an advocate, caregiver, and healthcare surrogate for a family member dealing with stroke and vision loss from Diabetic Retinopathy. Her passion for advocating for those unable to do so themselves, particularly solo seniors without nearby support, continues to grow.
Beyond her advocacy work, Darlene is a mother of three adult children, two daughters, and one son, with a host of grandchildren. In her spare time, she remains a perpetual student, embracing intentional living, reading non-fiction, writing, and cherishing moments with family and friends. Darlene shares her love for the NY Jets with her husband, Earl Christy, who has successfully overcome health challenges and is now cancer-free and thriving.
