Event Rewind: Ohio Researchers’ Day at the Capitol and Legislative Luncheon

BioOhio joined our national partner PhRMA at the Ohio Statehouse on March 27th for the BioOhio/Pharma Researchers’ Day at the Capitol, followed by the Legislative Luncheon with special guest Rolf Benirschke. The event provided a valuable opportunity for the bioscience community to deliver an update to legislators on breakthroughs and the impact of Ohio-based research around the world.

The organizations that participated in the meetings included AveXis, Cardinal Health, BioMotiv, G2G Consulting, Myonexus Therapeutics, The Ohio State University Drug Development Institute, Ohio University, and Sollis Therapeutics.

We thank the following legislators for their time and attention on Researchers’ Day: Representatives Jay Edwards, Laura Lanese, Beth Liston, Don Manning, and Derek Merrin; and Senators Hearcel Craig, Stephanie Kunze, Larry Obhof, and Kenny Yuko.

“This was my first experience meeting with legislators about the important contributions BioOhio and its member companies add to Ohio’s overall economic health,” said BioOhio Meeting and Event Planner Scott Clay. “The day before our meeting, Rep. Don Manning, Vice Chair House Health Committee, proposed new legislation for funding health programs who had provable positive results within their communities. This has potential to make a difference in the daily lives of Ohioans.”

Following meetings with legislators, PhRMA and BioOhio hosted a luncheon featuring Rolf Benirschke, former NFL placekicker, co-founder of Legacy Health Strategies, and patient advocate. Rolf’s third season as a placekicker in the NFL was cut short when he collapsed on a cross-country team flight while battling ulcerative colitis. He would need two emergency surgeries within six days as his life hung in the balance for six weeks in the intensive care unit. It was Rolf’s faith, personal drive, family and teammates that encouraged him through those darkest hours and aided in his triumphant and improbable return to the NFL.

Following his athletic career Rolf devoted his life to patient advocacy and to sharing his amazing story. Through his powerful message, he issued a stirring challenge – to embrace the devastating circumstances of life and turn them into an incredible opportunity for growth.

BioOhio, PhRMA, and Ohio’s bioscience community would like to once again thank our elected officials for their time and support, both at today’s event, and throughout the year.