Crystal Thomas is a Registered Nurse at the Beckley VA Medical Center. Last year, while doing a wellness check on a veteran she realized something wasn’t quite right. Her patient confided that their mental health was suffering, they had access to a weapon, and considered taking their own life.
She immediately got to work with her colleagues. The patient was seen that day and successfully treated. According to the VA, “Because of Crystal’s prompt action, diligent attention to detail, and caring nature, the veteran who was in crisis in that moment is still with us today and enjoying a higher quality of life.”
Crystal became a nurse and decided to work at the VA because of the care her father, who was an Army veteran, received there in the past. She now helps veterans each day care for their health.
For her compassion and dedication to the health care of veterans in southern West Virginia, RealWV is proud to name Crystal Thomas as the certified Real West Virginian of the week.
Have a nomination for future weeks? Reach out to us at news@therealwv.com.
