Mon, May 17, 2021 at 05:00 PM

Arab Chamber presents “Hero” award to MMC on behalf of all healthcare workers

Dr. Sparks accepts Hero award on behalf of MMC

Marshall Medical Centers accepted a “Heroes of the Year” Award from the Arab Chamber of Commerce dedicated to the local healthcare community for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Arab Chamber of Commerce President Jynnah Mooney said the board of directors decided to present the award to the medical community because they felt it was very deserving considering the challenges of the past year. “They had to change the way they lived and worked basically overnight to ensure the safety of our community,” she said. “They did whatever it took and they deserve all the recognition and more.”Chairman of the chamber, Sandra Bales, said the award goes to all healthcare workers in recognition of those “who have continued to show up and do your jobs in an extraordinary and sometimes sacrificial way.”“All of us here tonight know the work you do is extremely important,” she said at the annual chamber banquet May 6. “The efforts of each and every healthcare worker have impacted thousands of lives in the past 12 - 14 months. Not only doctors and nurses, but also aides, technicians, food service workers, housekeeping services, office staff and those who maintain the facilities. Primary care, urgent care and specialists alike have shown their willingness to do what it takes.” The award was presented to Marshall Medical Center North but it is intended to be shared by everyone in the healthcare profession in the Arab area. “MMCN is honored to be given this award by the Chamber,” said Marshall Medical President Cheryl Hays. “Caring for others during a pandemic is certainly a team effort, and the support shown from the Arab community made it a privilege.”The award was accepted by Dr. Victor Sparks, chief of emergency medicine at Marshall North, who attended the banquet along with Hays, Dr. B.J. Maze, vice-president of medical affairs, Dr. Lezlie Reed-Johnson, Traci Stewart, executive director of the Marshall Cancer Care Center, Kathy Woodruff, Chief Nursing Officer, spouses and staff members.