Since coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine shipments began arriving last week to our hospitals, many frontline and clinical Ballad Health team members have been getting their vaccinations – more than 6,200 to date!
We’ll continue to share information about additional vaccinations and when they will become available to other groups across the system, and we encourage all team members to receive their vaccination.
Learn more at our COVID-19 vaccine information page on Ballad Health News:
- www.balladhealthnews.org/covid-19-vaccine-information-center
- Latest vaccine FAQ sheet (updated Dec. 23)
Here’s what team members who chose to get the vaccine are saying:
James Kneff, Jr., MD, ER medical director, Bristol Regional Medical Center
“I chose to get the vaccine because this is an unprecedented crisis we are facing, and I will do anything I can do to make myself, my family and community safer.”
Sherry Carrier, Bristol Regional Medical Center
“I chose to get the vaccine because I thought it would be a great opportunity, since I am on the front line. I got it in honor of all those who have recently passed from this disease.”
Judith Curtis, respiratory therapist, Bristol Regional Medical Center
“I chose to get the vaccine because I had COVID and I don’t ever want to have it again, and to protect my family from it.”
Lauren Davis, patient access representative, Lonesome Pine Hospital
“I know a lot of people who have had the virus, so I thought it would be a good idea to get the vaccine.”
Ricky Wells, LPN, surgical tech, Norton Community Hospital
“I decided to get the vaccine because I’m a Type 2 diabetic, and I want to protect myself and my family. I want to make sure I can stay healthy and do what I’m supposed to do.”
Ricky takes the vaccine to honor his father, who passed away recently: “He would have been confined at home and unable to get out, and I would have hated to see that for him.”
Danielle Clevinger, RN, emergency department at Johnston Memorial Hospital
“I’m grateful we have access to the vaccine right now. Prevention is key to helping us fight COVID-19.”
James Tyler, VP/CEO, Smyth County Community Hospital
“There was a feeling of relief as I thought about getting the shot. I say this to encourage everyone to get the vaccination. It does provide some peace of mind. What a wonderful Christmas present – peace of mind.”
