Celebrating Stories of Recovery:
Wayne Wells

On April 21, 2020, Wayne Wells, affectionately known as “Mr. Wayne,” traveled the hallways of McLeod Health Clarendon as he had done many times before as a Volunteer for the hospital. Only this time, he was the patient.

This day was a milestone for 61-year-old Mr. Wayne. It marked the end of an 11-day battle with COVID-19 and the beginning of a testimony of hope and recovery.

As the nurse wheeled him to the front entrance, he was met with a parade of cheerful hospital colleagues as they lined the hallways to see him off. Excited and relieved family members greeted him at the entrance, eager to take him home.

“It all started on a Thursday afternoon when I felt ill,” explained Mr. Wayne. “At first, I was coughing and sneezing and thought it was a cold, but the symptoms got worse. By Saturday, I was very short of breath and had a high fever. I could not take it anymore and asked my sister to drive me to the Emergency Department.”

Admitted to McLeod Health Clarendon while awaiting his COVID-19 test results, Mr. Wayne received the news that he tested positive.

“I was very concerned when the doctor told me I had COVID-19 because I knew people were dying from the virus,” recalled Mr. Wayne. “I dropped my head for a few seconds before reminding myself that God would bring me through this.

“There were many difficult days and nights, but I knew God had me. One of the hardest parts of this experience was not being able to see my family or have them close.”

Determined to keep his spirits up, Mr. Wayne kept in touch with his family through Facebook Messenger and group texts.

“Even though they could not be at the hospital, they asked people to pray for me every day at 3 p.m.,” he continued. “I know without a doubt it made it a difference.”

Dr. Catherine Rabon, Chief Medical Officer at McLeod Health Clarendon, cared for Mr. Wayne during his hospital stay.

“Nothing breaks a physician’s heart more than when a patient looks at you and asks, ‘Am I going to die’?” said Dr. Rabon. “Thankfully, in Mr. Wayne’s case, I was able to give him hope of survival. His body’s response to the treatment, along with his positive attitude and strong faith, all played an important role in his recovery.”

“I’m grateful to Dr. Rabon, the nurses and technicians who cared for me. They were always there when I needed them,” recalled Mr. Wayne.

“I am proud to say that I am a COVID-19 survivor. I thank God I am alive and able to share my story of hope.”

Beloved by many within the hospital and surrounding community, Mr. Wayne returned to volunteering at McLeod Health Clarendon on June 19, a day he has been looking forward to for months.

He shared the moment on his Facebook page with a selfie showing his bright smile and the simple message, “It’s good to be back.”