Letters to the Editor

A thank you to nurses in times like these

Our present times and the situation you are in as nurses must be the most difficult times of your career. Please know that you are thought about, appreciated and admired by a great number of our community and former co-workers.

These are challenging times. You want to do the best for your patients, but do not have the time. You work long hours, are short staffed, receive little recognition and often very little respect.

These are discouraging times. There never seems to be enough time. There are too many patients who need you and you cannot establish the relationship with your patients and families you would like. There are new and different variants of disease, not enough folks receiving vaccines and something new each day. You are sometimes not treated as nicely or with the respect you deserve.

These are distracting times. You want to do more for your patients, and you want to help your co-workers more. You are often not able to have that work/life balance that is so important to yourself. You are concerned about your own health and that of your close family and friends. You are not able to participate in "normal" holiday celebrations.

But these are encouraging times. There is more research on disease, and medications to prevent and treat the disease that are being perfected. You have the support and appreciation from a vast group of former co-workers and friends who admire what you are doing. I often hear positive words from community members who appreciate your work. Please know that you are thanked and appreciated for all you are doing for our families, friends and community - in times like these!

- David Shaffer, Meadville
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune, December 9, 2021

Let us do our part and follow rules

Did we really need an executive from the Meadville Medical Center to remind us to wear a mask, social distance and be respectful and kind to each other?

I have to admit, I am a tad bullheaded and stubborn myself. I like to gather all the facts and make up my own mind about things.

But it doesn't take a virologist to realize that this virus is no joke. It is no time to be belligerent, rude or knuckle-headed if we look at the statistics of the damage this coronavirus has done so far to our world.

Now, if you want to be sick, or watch someone you know and love be put on a ventilator to breathe, carry on.

For me, my friends and family, we will abide by the rules and regulations set down by knowledgeable medical personnel. When entering any medical facility, wear a mask and follow the rules. It won't kill you, but your ignorance will.

The employees of Meadville Medical Center have sacrificed much and given their lives to keep all of us alive and healthy and safe. Let us all do our part. May God bless us all.

- Sandra Ragozine, Hermitage
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune on September 16, 2021

We are surrounded by heroes in our area

I would like to thank all of those who have served so fearlessly and endlessly in the past 18 months as we've fumbled through the pandemic.

The workers at box stores, grocery stores and convenience stores, as well as other retailers, ensured that we would have food on our tables in the safest and most expedient way possible. Appreciation to those who manned the drive-thrus at the various fast-food restaurants while being masked and gloved, but still providing courteous and friendly service. Special thanks and appreciation to those who provide the COVID updates.

Thanks to the churches who made their services available online and through the cable station. Thanks to the libraries who kept their patrons well-read through curbside services and later protected interiors. And, of course, thank you to all who provide health services from the cleaning personnel to the chief of medicine. Thank you to all of you who have worked diligently and safely to ensure life could proceed and needs be met.

Even in a small area like ours, we are surrounded by heroes and I for one am thankful for each and every one of them!

- Leda Boal, Cochranton
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune on September 2, 2021

Inform yourself about COVID-19 vaccine

I am writing to my fellow citizens who are questioning the value, safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines. I must begin by expressing my gratitude to Meadville Medical Center and employees for their service and leadership throughout this pandemic. I am grateful for their dedication to caring for the ill and for their impressively well organized vaccination administration. Thank you for serving our community.

Vaccines are not a perfect or complete solution to combating viral diseases and it is unlikely that they ever will be. Medical research continues to improve the safety and efficacy of vaccines. The eradication of viral diseases like smallpox and polio are inspiring examples of successful vaccination campaigns that changed the world.

If you remain uncertain of the value or importance of getting a COVID-19 vaccination, please consult your primary care physician, our local hospital or the website of larger hospital health systems such as UPMC or Cleveland Clinic. I have personally put my trust in these institutions and I have no reason to question any of their basic medical advice. Please consider seeking the advice of a medical professional with whom you have a trusting relationship or to larger regional medical facilities and ask their advice on the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccination.

- Teresa Shellito Olah, Conneaut Lake
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune on May 19, 2021

What's keeping people from getting vaccine?

Being of a certain age allows some of us an interesting perspective on the current vaccine hesitaters. We were part of the first mass polio vaccination efforts in the 1960s long before the majority of today's anti-vax crowd were even thought of.

Polio was invisible, horrible to behold and before the vaccine, spreading like wildfire. We went for our treatment, we knew the alternative was playing with a bad outcome, we even went back for more treatment after the first vaccine effort proved defective, and we conquered polio.

What has happened to people since then? What has really happened, not the conspiracy manipulations leading people to act against their own best interests and those of their fellow humans, but for real, nothing. Science hasn't failed us, science isn't killing us, science is still the same, millions of dedicated people working tirelessly to improve our chances of leading healthy lives.

You can only answer this yourself if you are resisting the shot. Exactly what is the reason, is it something you heard at a meeting, something in a pamphlet, or on social media, and how does the information you have based your decision on stack up against the reality of sinking infection rates where the shots have succeeded in saving lives? The rest of us hope that you come to realize that getting the shot will be a good thing for you, for those you love, and for all of the U.S.

- David Vinch, Meadville
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune on April 23, 2021

Thank you to Meadville Medical Center

My husband and I are fairly new to the area, compared to most, and we now consider this our home. A very large part of being connected in a community is to have loyalty. In order to have loyalty you must have trust. The trust and loyalty that I have for Meadville Medical Center will remain with me always.

My husband, Walter, has suffered with many different complications, ailments, and chronic pain for years and he finally found freedom from this torture with the assistance, endless patience and loving care of the doctors and nurses of Meadville Medical Center. The sensitivity that we both received during his last hours created a loyalty in me that will remain forever. During his last hours of struggle he was treated with such respect and caring. The soothing whispers of the nurses as they administered medication and other comforting tasks, also provided comfort for my children and me as we listened on.

I thank you all, at MMC, for our support and kindness throughout such a sorrowful event.

- Patricia Zinno, Meadville
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune on April 17, 2021

City is lucky to have hospital, college

I'm not a native of Meadville, but I am so glad to be living here during its revitalization. New businesses are emerging, empty spaces are being reclaimed, community gardens are springing up, and a spirit of innovative energy is present everywhere. Sure, the city has some structural budget issues to solve, but there is nothing the local citizenry can't solve once it determines to do so. Personally, I love working alongside others who see nothing but opportunities and solutions in-the-making.

Speaking of which, Meadville has two other things going for it; the college and the hospital. If you live in Crawford County, chances are you have been benefited from their presence.

For starters, both Allegheny College and the Meadville Medical Center are major economic engines. they employ hundreds of local residences who, in turn, generate more economic activity. Both entities attract global talent and build international connections. The influx of diverse people into our community brings vitality and makes it more inclusive. Likewise, the relationships established with international partners often provides opportunities for the private sector to exploit new markets.

Furthermore, both institutions offer vital services to surrounding communities. The Meadville Medical Center creates greater access to healthcare and contributes significantly to the health and well-being of the region's populace. With an emphasis on civic engagement, Allegheny College faculty and students fan out across the county working for the betterment of local residents. Also, the college holds various cultural and sporting events that are both enriching and exciting.

Despite what some might tell you, we are better off having both institutions in our city. By the way, congratulations to Andy Walker and Dr. Denise Johnson. Andy's experience will benefit both the college and the city and Dr. Johnson is a rock star; her appointment is our loss, but the commonwealth's gain.

- Bruce Harlan, Meadville
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune on March 27, 2021

Thank you, MMC, for vaccination clinics

Many, many thanks to the staff and volunteers of the Meadville Medical Center who provide such a valuable community service with their COVID vaccination clinics. I received both shots at St. Mary's of Grace, and the MMC folks there could not have been more friendly or helpful on either occasion.

My first appointment was in mid-February when doses were limited, so I breezed right through. Three weeks later, many more doses were available, which was reflected in the huge increase in people lining up for their jab. Yet, MMC has increased the available staff in proportion, so there was always someone nearby to help, direct us to the next station, or answer questions. I'll bet there are a lot of tired staffers at the end of those busy days. So, I know I speak for a lot of people, when I say, "Thank you!". Much appreciated.

- Don Weyel, Jr.
Appeared in the Meadville Tribune on March 25, 2021