To the editor,

At Cape Fear Valley Health, we are very proud of our long list of accreditations, certifications, performance awards and top grades. We have received recognition for our services from A to Z — from our consistent Leapfrog A rating for patient safety to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Zs of restful sleep.

Our mission and vision are about providing exceptional care for our patients and improving their life. That’s what healthcare is, putting the focus on the patient and being fully concerned for their well-being. We ask a lot from our employees, but they constantly go the extra mile selflessly, without being asked. During this last year through the challenges of COVID-19, our employees have been steady sources of comfort for patients when their loved ones are unable to be there. Many rolled up their sleeves to join vaccine trials, and when the vaccines were ready they greeted the public with warmth and gentle assurance at our vaccine clinics.

So I want to take this opportunity to say it, and to say it loudly: Cape Fear Valley employees are the reason our health system consistently hits benchmarks, performs at top levels, improves lives, and provides exceptional healthcare for all our patients. This is especially true over the past year, which has been one of the most challenging any of us have ever faced. We couldn’t have done it without our employees.

To the dedicated staff who work throughout the Cape Fear Valley Health System, we are grateful for you and we thank you.

Michael Nagowski,

CEO, Cape Fear Valley Health System