Homer Alaska - Business

Giving health-care workers of the southern Kenai Peninsula a much-deserved spotlight, Kenai Peninsula Borough Mayor Dave Carey was in Homer Friday to proclaim March 12, 2010, "Health-care Heroes Day for the Southern Kenai Peninsula."

In a reception at Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center, Carey presented the proclamation to Bob Letson, chief executive officer of South Peninsula Hospital, who accepted it on behalf of all southern peninsula residents who "endeavor to provide compassionate care to members of the community, friends and family."

The mayor's proclamation noted "health-care workers are an integral part of the Southern Kenai Peninsula Borough communities and are represented by the individuals who are committed to providing health care to others in need with varying circumstances."

It also acknowledged the teamwork required to fulfill that important role, and the "many times various health-care providers contribute their services in the background, without recognition for their selfless, kind and compassionate giving" while encouraging the healing of mind, body and spirit.

Drawing from his personal life, Carey shared ways his family had been influenced by and benefited from health-care providers. From his grandmother, who was a nurse, Carey said he learned that "each of us is linked to each other. We all have to care for each other."

He noted the care given to his mother when she contracted polio in 1957, and that his oldest sister had been a registered nurse. "She loved taking care of people," Carey said.

The family's appreciation of medical personnel was deepened three years ago when Carey's nephew was involved in what he described as a "terrible vehicle accident."

In 2009, Carey held a similar event in the central peninsula, recognizing health-care workers in that part of the borough. Friday the emphasis was on the community of health-care providers and workers on the southern half of the peninsula.

"I understand you are expressions of love in the community, expressions of compassion," Carey said.

Derotha Ferraro, SPH public relations director and former executive director for the Homer Chamber of Commerce, noted how frequently she has been asked for information on health care available in Homer.

"So many people on their relocation inquiries ask what the hospital is like, how many doctors does Homer have. That information is important. It's about the quality of life wherever you live," Ferraro said. "I really appreciate that Mayor Carey thinks that's a big deal. It is."

McKibben Jackinsky can be reached at mckibben.jackinsky.@homernews.com.