A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community Partners

In times of challenge, the strength of our community is truly revealed. Over Memorial Day weekend, our Haywood County family demonstrated extraordinary resilience and unity, showcasing what makes our region so special. On behalf of Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC), I extend my deepest gratitude to all the organizations and individuals who came together in response to the recent environmental incident which began as a fuel spill at HRMC.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the swift action and professionalism of our local fire departments. The Junaluska Fire Department, with support from the Clyde Fire Department and Crabtree Fire Department, displayed remarkable dedication and expertise. Their coordinated efforts in following response protocol and collaborating with our leadership and others to construct containment measures were crucial in managing the situation effectively.

Haywood County Emergency Services played a pivotal role in orchestrating the response, promptly mobilizing resources and ensuring that every necessary step was taken to mitigate potential impacts. Their collaboration with NC Emergency Management and the North Carolina Regional Response Team 6 (RRT-6) from Asheville Fire Department was a testament to the power of teamwork and preparedness.

Environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility, and the arrival of Hepaco, our environmental hazmat contractor, exemplified the importance of having specialized support. Their immediate response and diligent efforts in containment and cleanup have been invaluable. Additionally, the expertise and guidance provided by the NC Department of Environmental Quality – Water Resources Division and the Environmental Protection Agency have been instrumental in navigating this complex situation.

Our gratitude also extends to the NC Department of Transportation crews, as well as the Town of Waynesville, whose assistance was vital in the successful completion of containment measures. The efforts of the NC Department of Agriculture and local agricultural representatives have also been crucial in supporting our local farmers and ensuring the well-being of our Haywood County agricultural community.

This incident has emphasized the strength of our partnerships and the unwavering dedication of our community to mutually supporting one another for the greater good of the community. We are profoundly grateful for the collaboration, resource management, and swift action of all the agencies and organizations involved. It is through these collective efforts that we continue to protect and support one another, ensuring the safety and health of Haywood County.

In moments of adversity, we find unity and resilience. Haywood Regional Medical Center remains dedicated to serving our community with the highest standard of care and commitment. Together, we will continue to face challenges head-on, emerging stronger and more connected than ever.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this remarkable effort. Your dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed, and we are immensely proud to be part of such a wonderful community.

With sincere gratitude,

Chris Brown, MBA, R.T.-(R), RDMS, RVT, RDCS, RN, CPPS

CEO, Haywood Regional Medical Center