The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the world by storm and affected many people and families. Hospitals workers have been overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients and strict regulations and guidelines. 

 Medical director and doctor at Johnston Willis Hospital, Charles Deverna, has taken the lead in the ER since COVID-19 first impacted the country. Though it has been a challenge, he still sees the beauty of caring for and saving patients’ lives.

“I have no regrets becoming the doctor I am today,” Deverna said. 

Younger and newer nurses, such as ER nurse Lindsey Peck, are new to the ER environment. Due to the stressful atmosphere COVID-19 has created for numerous hospitals, Peck and other beginner nurses struggle in this unfamiliar and intense environment. 

“People are much more sick and have become heavy loads,” Peck said. 

This extra push of sick patients has led to a strict protocol using personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as PPE, in the hospital. PPE is the protective gear hospital workers have to wear while being in the presence of COVID-19 patients, but many of the nurses and doctors have different opinions about the PPE. 

“I think using protective equipment is okay, but I’ve become really tired of it,” Peck said. 

Peck finds the hospital environment less enjoyable due to the extra personal protective equipment and the overwhelming amount of sick people. Still, she does not have any regrets because it brought their team together. 

Michelle Love has been an ER nurse for over 15 years now and has been strictly enforced to wear their masks even if it may be annoying or bothersome. They have to wear a gown, gloves, an N-95 mask, and a face shield or eyewear if anyone is even suspected of having COVID-19.

“It’s difficult, but I still absolutely love my job even though times have been rough. The medical gear has been tough for many workers, but we know it’s essential,” Love said. 

These hospital heroes have been fighting diligently and following extreme COVID-19 guidelines. Love also stated it was more difficult for hospital workers because they couldn’t allow family members to visit their sick family members. 

“Patients need family members because it helps with their healing process as a comfort technique,” Love said. 

It has become more difficult for hospital workers, but it has not slowed them down in the slightest. Throughout the Chesterfield County community, residents can depend on a caring hospital to run to when in need of professional and medical help. Doctors and nurses are fighting to put out a powerful message to stop the spread of COVID-19 because they have seen the worst of it. 

“It has been an honor to be on the frontline caring for patients,” Deverna said.

Gallery • 2 Photos

Signs line the front of Johnson Willis Hospital to show support for hospital workers.