In remembrance of a special team member, Boone McCrary, RN
Boone McCrary, RN, a beloved nurse at Greeneville Community Hospital and a member of our Ballad Health family, tragically lost his life in the flash floods from Hurricane Helene. It was reported he was in a boat with his dog attempting to save the life of a civilian from the rapid floodwaters. Both Boone and his dog were found deceased by search and rescue personnel.
This is an incredibly painful moment for all of us, and our hearts go out to Boone's family, friends and colleagues at Greeneville Community Hospital, as well as everyone who is suffering during this time of profound loss.
The Ballad Health team will remember Boone as the ultimate caregiver who was kind and compassionate with a larger-than-life personality. The past few days, we have heard our team share stories of how he sang to team members and patients to lighten the mood and that he loved music and his beloved chocolate lab, Moss, who was always with him.
We are committed to being there for each of our team members as we grieve and work through the challenging days ahead together. Thank you for respecting the privacy of those affected as we navigate this tragedy.
We know this is an extraordinarily difficult time for everyone. Counseling and support services for team members and their immediate family are available through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP is available to assist team members and families with confidential mental health and substance abuse services through Ballad Health Counseling Services. Ballad Health provides coverage at no cost. Additionally, our 24/7 Respond Crisis Hotline is available to the public and can be reached at 800-366-1132.
Boone McCrary, RN Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Ballad Health Foundation has set up a scholarship fund to support nursing students in memory of Boone. To donate to the fund, visit the Foundation Disaster Relief page. Ballad Health also has "Appalachia – Strong as the Mountains" T-shirts honoring Boone McCrary on sale in all hospital gift shops and online for a limited time. Proceeds will benefit the Boone McCrary, RN Memorial Scholarship Fund.
