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Gayle Hays

Bailey Island, Maine

Gayle Hays

As the Covid 19 vaccines first became available in Maine, Gayle volunteered to give shots to those who were eligible at a location sponsored by Mid-Coast Hospital, where she had worked for more than 20 years. Even though the Maine Center for Disease Control had a very comprehensive website, Gayle became concerned that many older adults in her community had no access to computers or had limited skills and would have difficulty registering for the vaccine at the correct location. She immediately launched an effort to provide information to website articles, a Facebook page and phone calls. Gayle personally texted everyone she knew and additional names that were sent to her and assisted them in registering for the vaccine at the assigned site. She involved other community organizations and churches in this effort. She also made follow-up calls to ensure that the individuals were given appointments and accurate information. Thanks to Gayle’s efforts and the program she created, numerous members of her community received their first Covid vaccination. Gayle has a deep commitment to assisting people in her community that stems from a strong dedication to volunteering, her faith and her extensive experience in leadership roles in her nursing career.