Community responds with compassion and unity after Jefferson County emergency

CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. – When severe storms caused serious structural damage to the Charles Towers apartment complex in Charles Town on the evening of July 16, WVU Medicine Jefferson Medical Center teams responded immediately—demonstrating not only clinical excellence, but deep compassion.

The complex, which is home to many older adults and individuals with disabilities, left nearly 90 residents displaced. Within hours, Jefferson Medical Center staff, alongside emergency officials, established an evacuation center at the Ranson Civic Center and began meeting urgent medical and personal needs.

“Our people didn’t need to be asked,” Mark O’Hern, president and CEO, WVU Hospitals East, said. “They showed up. They brought medical expertise, supplies, clean clothing, and comfort to neighbors who were scared and displaced. When there’s a crisis like

this, you don’t just see skill—you see heart. That’s what community looks like.”

Breonna Barr, M.D. and Incident Commander Michael Plankers were among the first onsite overnight, coordinating care and ensuring that every resident had their medications and basic necessities. Health department teams, including Terrence Reidy,

M.D. and their colleagues, joined the response early this morning, further strengthening the collaborative effort.

“This has been a true team effort,” Nicole Dollison, president and CEO of Jefferson Medical Center said. “Our physicians, nurses, and support staff worked hand in hand with emergency responders, city officials, and the American Red Cross. We’re proud to be part of a community that takes care of its own.”

WVU Medicine staff planned to be onsite throughout the day Thursday, with resident physicians planning to arrive in the afternoon to complete additional medical examinations and medication checks, and shared the team would continue to support the situation as needs evolve.

“This response is more than just logistics and protocols,” O’Hern emphasized. “It’s a reflection of the values we share: service, care, and community pride. I’m honored to be a part of a team that treats neighbors like family.”

--WVU MEDICINE--