Twenty-one have died from COVID-19 at Spring River Christian Village, but Joplin facility officials say things are better

(From Christian Horizons Living)

While the latest numbers reported 73 residents have tested positive for COVID-19 with 21 residents having passed away, Spring River Christian Village announced Wednesday that it celebrated the recovery of its last COVID+ resident who moved back to their normal living environment on Monday, August 10.

Spring River residents and associates celebrated with photos and signs outside the entrance as the last of 52 residents emerged victorious from the community’s COVID Recovery Unit. 

“We had a total of 73 positive, but 21 of those passed away,” said Ray Dickison, Christian Horizons COO and COVID-19 Task Force Leader. “Our prayers are still with the families that have lost a loved one to the virus.” 

Stacey Smith, Executive Director said the couple of months since the virus was first found at Spring River has been tough for the residents, their families, and the staff, and having a chance to celebrate the recoveries put a smile on everyone’s faces (behind the masks). 

“What has seen us through has been our faith, our people and the incredible response from the Joplin community,” said Smith.

“We’re grateful for the support we’ve received during these challenging days. We’d like to thank Spring River residents and their families for their positivity and understanding; our incredible associates, who have worked selflessly around the clock to keep residents secure, connected and cared for; local businesses for their generosity and partnership; area churches for their outreach and fellowship; and, the Joplin community for their encouragement and donations.