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A COVID-19 survivor wanted to do as much as she could to say thank you to those working on the frontlines during this pandemic.

Mamie Vaughan was a first responder but had to retire after coming down with COVID-19. Knowing firsthand what the job entails and how COVID-19 patients are taken care of, she knew she had to do something to show appreciation to these workers, especially during the holiday season.

Knowing her resources are limited, she reached out to businesses across Suffolk and Chesapeake to help her thank our frontline workers. The response she got was overwhelming.

“Each place I went said, ‘Absolutely,’” said Vaughan. “They also said thank you to all our frontline workers.”

Donations poured in from businesses in downtown and North Suffolk and Chesaeake. A few of the many helpers were Quality Tires Auto Care, Starbucks, State Farm in Chesapeake, Mike Duman Auto Sales, Taco Bell, Luxe Nails Spa, Wawa, Jersey Mikes, Krispy Kreme, Ryan’s Steak and Cakes, Which Wich Superior Sandwiches, Skrimp Shack and Opal Waxing. These and other businesses donated money, supplies and coupons for the goodie bags.

These bags included a range of items like masks, paper towels and laundry detergent to canned goods, snacks and fun door prizes. In addition, Roy and Ricky’s Catering and Metropolitan Credit Union donated turkeys to help folks with their upcoming Thanksgiving meal.

“I wanted to make sure they know that this is not just from me,” said Vaughan. “We all appreciate all they do for us. I want to give blessings and thanks to all who helped make this possible.”

Vaughan and her helpers, Saquita Norfleet, Sierra Eley and Sandra Powell, took these bags to numerous locations, including Sentara Obici Hospital, Maryview Hospital, 1 Foot 2 Foot, Urgent Care on Bridge Road and Lakeview Medical Center.

“They are up to their elbows in Covid and putting their life on the line for people like me and all who need them,” said Vaughan. “They think about our lives, not theirs.”

Vaughan made her donations on Nov. 18 and 19 to all the locations. According to her, the donations touched those who received them. One recipient was brought to tears, and another asked if there were more turkeys due to recent struggles.

“We don’t know how many are struggling,” said Vaughan. “Many work every day but still in need. We want them to know their labor is not in vain.”

Vaughn was led to do this after experiencing personal care from her primary care physician, Dr. Eboni Carter of Urgent Care on Bridge Road, after her COVID-19 diagnosis. According to Vaughan, Carter went above and beyond and worked from the heart in all she did to make sure Vaughan would survive. She hopes to continue spreading the kindness that she was grateful to receive.
“If I can make a difference in one person’s life, then my living won’t be in vain,” said Vaughan.