Each day, healthcare workers and first responders face the risk of being exposed to traumatic events. Even so, Reading Hospital employees consistently show up to provide the highest levels of clinical care and support to the communities we serve.
On March 24, 2023, just before 5 p.m., an explosion at the R.M. Palmer Company plant devastated the surrounding communities. Whether clocked in or not, Reading Hospital employees rushed into action to provide lifesaving care and support.
Tragic incidents like this highlight the risk healthcare workers and first responders are willing to take at any time to help a person in need. In light of all that first responders, healthcare workers, and emergency personnel do for our community, Reading Hospital Foundation hosted Post Traumatic Purpose, an event to support those who face traumatic and critical situations regularly.
The event took place at the Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences on September 9, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Reading Hospital employees, and first responders in the surrounding community were encouraged to attend. Due to the vital role they play in the lives of those who serve, family members were also welcome to attend. Reading Hospital reserved seating to ensure that those who responded to the Palmer incident and treated the victims had priority access to the event.
“Our employees never truly know what emergency may walk through our doors next,” said Charles F. Barbera, MD, president and CEO of Reading Hospital. “But, they are always prepared, and their dedication never wavers. I am extremely proud of and thankful for all of our employees who continually show up for our patients.”
“Post Traumatic Purpose” is a mental health movement created by Travis Howze, an international touring speaker, author, and motivational wellness educator who spent 14 years in the military and emergency services as a U.S. Marine, Police Officer, and Firefighter. Howze's presentation included an empowering, educational course and keynote presentation on leadership, mental wellness, and resiliency.
A traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, a life-threatening event, or the unexpected death of a loved one, most commonly causes PTSD. Post Traumatic Purpose strives to spark a discussion on the experiences of healthcare workers, military personnel, first responders and family members who have been deeply affect by Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Tower Behavioral Health, a provider of comprehensive PTSD treatment for adolescents and adults of all genders, also participated in the event. “Post-traumatic stress disorder can be very daunting to live with,” said Jenna Pacini, SHRM-SCP, CEO of Tower Behavioral Health. “However, with treatment and support, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms, helping them regain control of their daily activities.”
“We are happy to provide this event to support emergency personnel in our community,” said Katherine Thornton, president of the Reading Hospital Foundation. “Hospitals play a vital role in the community and many times, first responders and healthcare workers experience situations that can be very traumatic. We hope that this event provided a safe space to share, listen, and support one another.”
About Reading Hospital
Reading Hospital is the flagship, Magnet Recognized, acute care hospital of Tower Health. Located in West Reading, Pa., Reading Hospital is a 697-bed hospital that is home to many top-tier specialty care centers, including Reading HealthPlex, McGlinn Cancer Institute, Miller Regional Heart Center, Emergency Department, Level I Trauma Center and Beginnings Maternity Center, which houses the region's only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). With more than 1,000 physicians, specialists, and advanced practice providers across 49 locations, Reading Hospital has been recognized for its quality outcomes and clinical expertise across service lines. It is listed as one of America's 100 Best Hospitals for four consecutive years and has been named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals in 2022 and 2023. For more information, visit towerhealth.org.