News came over the weekend that Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation in Summerville had reported their first death from COVID-19.  The nursing facility has seen a dramatic spike in the number of patients and staff members testing positive for coronavirus over the past couple of weeks.

As of last Friday, twenty-seven Oakview staff members had tested positive.  Oakview’s Director Reno Lambert told WZQZ News last week that the staff at Oakview has done a remarkable job of stepping up to help out with shifts that need to be covered due to the number of employees in quarantine.

Oakview staff told WZQZ News over the weekend that the response from the community has been overwhelming.  A member of the nursing staff said, “Churches, businesses and individuals are bringing food and snacks. Our staff right now are working endless hours taking care of our residents. With so many staff sick, the ones that are not out quarantined, are so amazing and are working so many overtime hours.”

Employees say that they want to express their thanks during this unprecedented time for the food and prayers that are keeping the staff going.