Letters to the Editor

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