HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Despite unprecedented challenges caused by COVID-19, the City of Huntsville’s health care professionals braved every storm to meet the public’s needs. That’s why Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle is recognizing the selfless individuals who staff our hospitals and take care of our community during National Nurses Week (May 6-12) and National Hospital Week (May 8-14).
Mayor Battle honored these unsung heroes Thursday, May 5, during a proclamation presentation with Huntsville Hospital CEO Jeff Samz and Crestwood Medical Center CEO Dr. Pam Hudson.
No matter what challenges arose during the pandemic, Mayor Battle said Huntsville’s health care system delivered the best possible care for our citizens.
“We are extremely grateful to each and every one of our nurses, doctors, technicians, therapists, support staff and other medical professionals for their hard work and dedication to keeping Huntsville healthy,” Mayor Battle said. “Your lifesaving work is critical to the well-being of our community and the patients you serve.”
As CEO of Huntsville Hospital, Samz heads the community-owned, not-for-profit health system that includes not only Huntsville Hospital and Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children, but also facilities across North Alabama and Southern Tennessee. Additionally, the system operates Caring for Life, an inpatient hospice facility in Huntsville.
Samz echoed Mayor Battle’s comments, saying the work Huntsville Hospital’s nursing staff does each day and night “is nothing short of phenomenal.”
“This became very apparent in the pandemic, but it has always been true,” he said. “We appreciate this recognition by the City of Huntsville and Mayor Battle. We share his pride and gratitude for the thousands of nurses and health care workers who serve our community.”
Hudson said it’s critical that our community recognizes, celebrates and honors health care workers not just in May, but throughout the year.
"These are the people who take care of us and our loved ones every day,” said Hudson, who leads Crestwood, a 180-bed, full-service acute care hospital. “We appreciate Mayor Battle for this proclamation that lifts up our nurses and entire hospital teams for their sacrifice and dedication for keeping our community healthy."