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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Managing Editor

Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton participated in a moment of silence last week to honor those who have died from COVID-19 and the health care professionals that continue to serve the community.

The observance was encouraged by the Alabama Department of Public Health.

Hospital Administrator Shanon Hamilton said a hospital-wide announcement was made followed by a moment of silence.

“I felt it was important for us to participate so that we could honor the memory of those who have died as a result of COVID-19 and to allow everyone at Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton to take a moment to consider the impact that the virus has had on our community, our state and our nation,” Hamilton said. “We read a memorial to remember those across the state who have died … those who are currently dealing with COVID-19 as well as their families and the healthcare workers who have cared for them.”

Hospital personnel have been on the frontlines since the beginning of the pandemic treating patients. At Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton, there are ICU rooms set aside for treating COVID-19 patients and a COVID specific unit in the medical surgery department.

“It has been very challenging but our associates have responded by showing their dedication to care for those in our community,” Hamilton said. “They have worked long hours, taken extra shifts and done what was necessary to care for our patients in the midst of this most recent surge.  It has shown that the strength of our organization is our associates and our providers.”

Chilton County has had 127 COVID-related deaths since the beginning of the pandemic, including several prominent members of the community.