Rallying Teammates to Welcome Back First Sierra View Medical Center (SVMC) Employee to Recover from COVID-19

Nearly two months later, the first Sierra View Medical Center (SVMC) employee to have contracted COVID-19 is set to return Tuesday, May 26th and all employees and local dignitaries are invited to join in a surprise celebration for the recovery and return of the SVMC Director of Imaging, Physical Therapy, Speech and Cath Lab.

On April 1, 2020, Richard “Richie” Hernandez went home with a slight fever and fatigue and was soon after hit hard by COVID-19, making him the first employee to have screened positive. Richard mentioned that he has dealt with health conditions such as diabetes and asthma and has dealt with his share of fatigue, but has experienced nothing like what COVID-19 caused. He is so thankful to be happy, healthy and returning to work!

Who: SVMC staff, medical staff, and local dignitaries are invited to greet Richard Hernandez, well-recovered first employee to have contracted COVID-19.

What:A surprise celebration to welcome him back.

When: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at 7:45 a.m.

Where:Sierra View Medical Center, 465 W Putnam Ave, Porterville, CA 93257, front entrance of the main hospital.

Why: A well-deserving welcome back after an extensive leave due to battling COVID-19 and to honor a teammate that was dearly missed.

Reminder: To all who plan to participate, please practice physical distancing of at least 6 feet and wear a proper face covering.

In celebrating the honorable employee, SVMC hopes this inspires all to take steps to protect the community from this unpredictable and unforgiving virus.

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