Sunday, May 27, 2007
Bound in friendship by tragedy
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Jim Carney
Carney, of Sterling, is the parent of Katelyn Carney, one of the survivors of the German class held in Norris Hall.
The horrific events at Virginia Tech on April 16 have scarred the campus, nearby community and the consciousness of unsuspecting thousands everywhere. The response of the people and communities of Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Christiansburg and surrounding areas has been overwhelming in compassion and support.
My wife, Susan, and I first learned of an "incident" on campus by our daughter Katelyn, who called us at approximately 10 a.m. Katelyn advised that she was shot, but OK, just before the phone went dead.
After several anxious minutes and additional calls, we were able to piece together a sketchy scenario of actions on campus. We were told there had been multiple shootings and to proceed to Montgomery Regional Hospital.
From that point on, the actions of the community police departments and the staff of Montgomery Regional Hospital can be described only as outstanding -- outstanding in their competence, care, compassion and professionalism.
We had no knowledge of the extent of the tragedy or the injuries to our daughter. The hospital staff called us at least three times while we were driving to the hospital from our Northern Virginia residence.
They kept us informed of Katelyn's condition and upcoming surgery. They accurately answered our questions with calmness and compassion and directed us where to go to ensure a quick and complete response by hospital personnel.
Dr. Demian Yakel, Katelyn's surgeon, also called us prior to the start of surgery and took the time to explain the procedure. The nurses' dedicated care and comfort helped each of the recovering students and overwhelmed families.
We are grateful to all hospital staff, from M. Scott Hill, CEO, to the many volunteers. All friends for life.
Likewise, the actions of the police departments, Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Virginia Tech and Virginia State Police, were exemplary. From the bedside manner of the state police detective who took our daughter's statement to the assistance given by the police officers around the hospital, campus and community, each displayed personal compassion and support.
They exhibited the highest traditions of competent and professional police actions, and they all should be recognized and commended.
It is often said that adversity brings out the best in people. As a former federal agent, I have seen this personal outpouring in response to the Oklahoma City bombing and to the needs of victims of Sept. 11, 2001.
The same unselfish actions and compassion by all the above groups helped my family and other victims and their families get through the horror as best we could. Thank you. You are all friends for life.
